Canada: Saskatchewan Pulses Crop in mixed condition.

09-Jul-2025 06:15 PM

Saskatoon. The condition of pulse crops like lentils and peas varies significantly across different regions of Saskatchewan, Canada’s leading agricultural province.

Analysts report that while heavy rains have negatively impacted crops in some areas, others are suffering from a lack of rainfall, and a few regions are seeing relatively normal crop conditions. Lentil, pea, and chickpea crops are displaying mixed performance across the province.

In areas experiencing heavy rainfall, fields in low-lying regions have become waterlogged, submerging crops. Conversely, some regions, particularly in the western part of the province, are battling drought-like conditions.

Pulse crops in these drier areas are under considerable stress due to adverse weather. Overall, about 60–70 percent of pulse crops in the province are reported to be in good or encouraging condition, while 30–40 percent are rated as normal, weak, or poor. This uneven situation could affect both the average yield and total output.

The northwestern and southwestern regions of Saskatchewan are facing a serious drought threat, with prolonged dry spells.

In these areas, the ripening process may begin earlier than usual, but the plants are producing fewer and smaller grains, which may compromise quality. While recent weeks have brought harsh weather, no major damage to pulse crops is expected.

Hailstorms in some regions occurred when plants were still in the vegetative stage, minimizing the impact. However, in areas where flowering and grain formation had begun, damage is more likely.

Additionally, late-June and early-July rains in certain areas have raised concerns about increased pest and disease pressure.

Though the overall area under pulse cultivation has increased slightly in Saskatchewan this year, the likelihood of a substantial rise in production remains uncertain due to the uneven crop conditions.