The only decreases in seeded area were for mustard seed and sunflower seed. The increase in area seeded to special crops resulted from a shift away from canola, flaxseed, spring wheat and oats, because of higher anticipated net returns for special crops. In western Canada, the condition and stage of development of special crops is generally average. Soil moisture is mostly good, but there are dry areas in western Saskatchewan and southern Alberta and areas of excessive moisture in eastern Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In Ontario and Quebec, seeding of dry beans was delayed by wet weather and crop condition is below average.
Soil moisture is mostly excessive.
Warmer temperatures are needed in all Canadian special crops growing areas. Average prices for dry beans and sunflower seed are expected to increase, while average prices for dry peas, lentils, chick peas and buckwheat are expected to be lower. Average prices of mustard seed and canary seed are expected to be similar to 1999-2000. Therefore, the average price over all types, grades and markets is forecast to decrease slightly. Production is forecast to remain stable as the higher seeded area is offset by lower expected yields.