Canola is not the only Clubroot host

When thinking about proactively managing clubroot, crop rotation is the most effective tool available. Having at least a three-year rotation between susceptible crops will help decrease the clubroot spore levels in that field. Susceptible crops also include mustard and camelina as well as some vegetable crops. Along with crop rotation, it is also important to remember that weed control is necessary as clubroot is caused by the pathogen, Plasmodiophora brassicae, and can also infect cruciferous weeds. Below is a list of some of the common susceptible weeds found in Saskatchewan as well as the main vegetable crops.

Weeds: Volunteer Canola, Shepherd’s Purse, Flixweed, Stinkweed, Mustard (volunteer, wild, ball, dog), Common Pepper-grass, Wood Whitlow-grass, Wild Radish.

Vegetable Crops: Arugula, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Kale, Rutabaga, Turnip.

If left uncontrolled, clubroot spore levels can continue to increase in the plant cells of susceptible crops and weeds. It is important to know what weeds are present in the field as well as their location and severity so they can be monitored each year. Producers and agronomists are encouraged to pull plants and look at the roots of susceptible plants while scouting their fields; this is important even in years when canola or mustard is not planted.

For more information, contact your nearest Crops Extension Specialist.