A new document called “Understanding Blackleg Resistance” that explains blackleg-resistance genes and two-part labels will help growers identify which resistance groups may be best suited for the current pathogen population in their fields.
A two-part label will first list the overall resistance: R (resistant), MR (moderately resistant), MS (moderately susceptible), or S (susceptible). The second part of the label has one or more letters that signify the major resistance gene. There are currently 10 groups (A, B, C, D, E1, E2, F, G, H, and X).
A simple lab test of infected plants can determine which strain of blackleg is present in a field, allowing producers to choose the right resistant variety.
The document can be found at the Alberta Canola Producers website.
