Spring into planting!
Ontario’s grain farmers prepare for the season
As the chill of winter gives way to the warmth of spring, Ontario’s grain farmers are gearing up for one of the most critical times of the year: planting season. Planting can start as early as late April and go until June some years. Fields across the province come alive this time of year with activity as farmers plant barley, corn, oats, soybeans, and wheat, setting the stage for a successful growing season.
Preparing the fields
Before the first seed touches the soil, farmers engage in detailed planning and preparation. This involves soil testing to determine nutrient needs, selecting the right seed varieties, and readying equipment for the tasks ahead. Some farmers may choose to use tillage on their field, to create a smooth soil for the seeds to be planted into. Other may use a no-tillage or conservation tillage practises to preserve soil structure and moisture. No fields are alike, so farmers need to be adaptable (especially in the spring as the soil thaws, warms and dries out!) to their fields, and how they can prepare the soil for the grain seeds.
The planting process
With field conditions are ready, farmers will begin to plant. Modern tractors equipped with precision planters and air seeders allow farmers to plant seeds at optimal depths and spacing. This ensures that the seeds and ultimately, the plants will be precisely spaced out to receive sunlight, water and nutrients; and the entire field will grow uniformly together. About 6 million (!) acres will be growing grains this year, and a lot of that planting work will happen this spring.
Timing is everything
The success of the crop heavily depends on timely planting. Research has shown that early planting can lead to significant yield increases: a bigger ability of those grain plants to produce more seeds, which means more seeds available to make products we eat or use everyday. But of course, there’s challenges that impact the timeframe of planting.
Challenges in the field
Spring weather in Ontario can be unpredictable, presenting challenges such as unexpected frosts or excessive rainfall. Farmers must remain adaptable, monitoring weather forecasts closely and adjusting their schedules to be ready to go in the planting windows. The use of advanced technologies, such as GPS-guided equipment and real-time soil moisture sensors, aids in making informed decisions during this critical period.
A community effort
The dedication of Ontario’s grain farmers during the spring planting season provides a foundation for a successful grain grown – and a stable supply of high-quality grains for everyday use. As you enjoy products made from barley, corn, oats, soybeans, and wheat, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and resilience of the farmers who make it all possible.
