News Canola
Bayer launches three new Dekalb straight-cut canola hybrids

Bayer announced three new Dekalb canola hybrids for Canadian canola growers that are optimized for straight-cutting at harvest.

The 2020 straight cut hybrids have traits tailored for improved pod integrity against severe weather and a lower risk of yield loss.

“Straight cutting is one of the fastest growing agronomic trends of the last decade, and it is expected to be the most common harvesting method by 2020,” said Jamie Mills, crop manager, canola at Bayer.

While there is some momentum behind that statement as more producers switch to straight-cutting canola, it might be premature. The recent wet and snowy harvests in the Prairies resulting in lodged canola might have producers keeping the swather around to respond to these conditions when they arise. Swathing can help dry down canola more quickly, especially when there aren’t any true desiccants that can speed dry down for straight-cut canola. In addition, a standing, immature crop is more at risk of frost damage than a swathed one. Recently, Nathan Gregg, a researcher at the Prairie Agriculture Machinery Institute (PAMI) investigated whether straight-cutting canola was a viable option compared to swathing.

These three new Dekalb straight cut hybrids are also all equipped with two major blackleg resistance genes including, LepR3(A) and RIms(G). The hybrids also feature early maturity and excellent “Harvestibility,” according to Bayer, which allow for additional flexibility for farmers based on their specific operation.

“Options like DKTFLL 21 SC provide enhanced weed control without sacrificing yield potential thanks to TruFlex with Roundup Ready and LibertyLink Technologies,” Mills added.

Bayer representatives say the new 2020 Dekalb hybrids have undergone extensive local performance trials to ensure they are built to tackle the challenges facing canola farmers across Canada.