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Alberta Grains begins trials on variety-specific fungicide applications

Jul 21, 2025 | 3:58 PM

A new small-plot research program will evaluate how wheat and barley varieties respond to fungicide applications in different regions of the province.

Alberta Grains has launched Advanced Management Trials (AMTs) which are co-funded by Syngenta and SeCan.

Trials will take place at six locations in Alberta where disease is common or likely including Taber (under irrigation), Lacombe, Olds, Westlock, Vermilion and Falher. The sites were selected based on their diverse growing environments and regional disease pressures. Each location features replicated plots of wheat and barley varieties that are either treated or untreated with fungicide.

Alberta Grains agronomy programs specialist Lara de Moissac said wheat and barley varieties differ in their levels of disease resistance and their genetic response to crop inputs such as fungicides.

“This program will help farmers better evaluate yield and quality responses of different varieties under disease-prone conditions when fungicides are applied,” she said. “The results of these trials will also clarify how the economics of fungicide applications can vary from one variety to another.”

The trials use a split-plot design and include four wheat and barley varieties selected in collaboration with the program’s seed distributor, SeCan. Full statistical analysis will be completed, and findings will contribute to future extension tools that support fungicide decisions and variety selection.

Tara McCaughey, head of technology solutions and sustainable ag with Syngenta Canada said understanding the value of fungicide applications across a variety of crops and regions is essential to good stewardship.

“We are proud to partner with Alberta Grains and contribute to research that helps farmers protect their crops and make informed decisions,” McCaughey said.

The AMTs are part of Alberta Grains’ broader effort to deliver regionally relevant, farmer-focused research.

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com