The practice of straight-cutting canola is gaining momentum but the practice is not without its challenges. Seed loss due to shattering is one concern many have when choosing to straight-cut, and a new product being rolled out by BrettYoung could help.

Winnipeg-based BrettYoung says its Pod Ceal product acts as a sealant, blocking out moisture and allowing a canola crop to fully ripen while decreasing shattering losses. (Photos courtesy BrettYoung)

Pod Ceal DC is an organic turpene polymer, sprayed on the plant when the colour turns from dark green to light green. Pod Ceal acts as a sealant, blocking out moisture and allowing the crop to fully ripen while decreasing shattering losses.

The manufacturer of Pod Ceal, Miller Chemical and Fertilizer, says the product increase oil content and quality as well.

BrettYoung’s own trials and farmer-run field trials from last year reported a two to three bushel yield advantage when using Pod Ceal and straight cutting versus swathing first. Pod Ceal can also be used on an uneven crop to protect yield when swathing is delayed.

Pod Ceal is applied either by air or ground and costs roughly $10 to $11 per acre for the product only. It is rainfast in one hour and remains effective for 40 days.

Pod Ceal DC is currently registered for use on canola, but is set for full label registration of all pod-bearing crops this month, the company says. The label should include peas, beans and alfalfa seed, among others.