Diseases can reduce the size of the kernels and discolour the seed. Lodging makes harvesting difficult and makes ripening uneven by delaying maturity in lodged areas. There are differences among varieties in resistance to disease and lodging. Choose a variety with resistance to lodging, stem, leaf, and panicle diseases from among the recommended milling varieties. Sowing certified seed ensures that the crop grown will have the true characteristics of the variety stated on the tag.
Cereals prefer cool weather with adequate moisture.
These conditions promote extensive tillering and good panicle size with many large seeds at harvest. Oats are sensitive to high temperatures so late-planted oats may have smaller seeds. Early seeded oats may avoid diseases that arrive later in the season. Use treated seed to reduce the risk of seedling diseases. Fertility Soil fertility affects yield and quality of the oats.