August 13, 2025

Clubroot Scouting

Scouting Canola Fields in Yellowhead County for Clubroot

2025 Clubroot Scouting will occur in Yellowhead County from approximately August 25th to September 26th.

Yellowhead County, AB (August 13, 2025) – As fall approaches, it’s a good time to remember that clubroot has been detected in Yellowhead County. Clubroot is a soil-borne disease that significantly reduces yields in cruciferous crops like canola, mustards, and certain vegetables.

Clubroot causes galls or “clubs” to form on the roots of infected plants, which hinders their ability to absorb water and nutrients, ultimately lowering crop yields. Areas with higher infection rates often experience more severe losses. In 2015, new clubroot pathotypes were identified in the Edmonton region that can overcome even clubroot-resistant seed varieties.

Yellowhead County Pest Inspectors will be scouting for clubroot in canola and other Brassicaceae crops throughout the County from approximately August 25th – September 26th. Scouts will follow strict prevention measures to reduce the risk of spreading the disease.

Clubroot spreads primarily through the soil movement from infected to non-infected fields. Soil can be carried by farm equipment, vehicles, and even wind or water erosion. Proper sanitation of machinery and equipment is crucial to stop the spread of clubroot.

Crop rotation is strongly recommended to reduce the severity of clubroot infections. Growing canola continuously on the same land increases the risk and severity of outbreaks. Although there is no cure for infected plants, there are steps you can take to prevent clubroot from becoming established:

  • Check fields regularly for signs of clubroot such as galls or clubs on roots, premature ripening, and wilting plants
  • Before moving to a new field, remove all dirt from wheels and sanitize all equipment and vehicles using a 1% bleach solution (99% water)
  • Use clubroot-resistant seed varieties when planting

For more information, visit www.clubroot.ca or contact the Yellowhead County Agricultural Department at the Wildwood County Office at 780-325-3782 or toll-free at 1-800-814-3935.