With the arrival of September, preparations are being made to plant cover crops and winter canola. The success of obtaining a stand in a fall planted crop will depend on timely planting as well as receiving adequate rain for emergence.

Winter canola should be planted during September through first week in October to provide the best chance of obtaining a stand. For crop insurance purposes, planting can be extended to October 15th but most producers who have worked with this crop indicate early planting is best, particularly in northern tier counties.  Plant at 4 to 6 pounds per acre, ideally at ½” into a firm, moist seedbed.  Surface moisture is essential to get a stand, and in a dry fall some producers have had success planting slightly deeper (to 1″) to moisture.  Sorghum plates can be used to plant canola seed or check with your equipment dealer for recommendation.  TN producers have tried different row widths, and although 30” rows can work, narrow rows reduce winter weed emergence and provide better plant spacing within a row.