Quality of western Canadian lentils 2017

2. Growing and harvesting conditions

Cool temperatures in Saskatchewan and Alberta in early spring resulted in delayed planting until May, especially in the central and northern areas of both provinces. Slightly above normal temperatures coupled with a lack of rainfall in May allowed growers in most areas to complete spring planting by the first week of June. However, in some areas of the northern Prairies, planting was delayed due to rainfall during the last week of May.

Above normal temperatures and mostly dry growing conditions prevailed during June and July over most of Western Canada. The primary lentil growing areas in Western Canada experienced stress which reduced yield expectations. However, quality of lentils was high for this year. The dry growing season resulted in minimal disease pressure in most pulse growing areas.

Excellent weather conditions in late August and September advanced crop maturity and allowed harvest to progress rapidly. Dry conditions occurred in the Peace River region, central Alberta and Saskatchewan. Wet conditions in northern regions caused delays in harvest. However, most lentil crops were in the bin by mid-October.