Objectives
To identify and display new and different products used to apply potassium and chloride in canola across the province. Outline products that provide chloride to canola without the use of potassium chloride (KCl-). Compare and contrast different rates and timings of side-band and foliar applied chloride products to the traditional method of applied KCl-. To investigate the useability and general wear and tear of chloride products on farm equipment.
Project Description
Chlorine (Cl) is an essential micronutrient involved in physiological processes in canola, including photosynthesis, stomatal regulation, enzyme activation, and disease resistance. Although chloride (Cl⁻) deficiency is considered rare in Saskatchewan, emerging research suggests it may play a greater role in plant growth and stress tolerance. Potassium chloride (KCl; 0-0-60) is the most commonly used fertilizer source supplying both potassium (K) and chloride; however, concerns about chloride management, soil variability, and equipment wear have increased interest in alternative potassium fertilizers with lower or differing chloride content. This study evaluated potassium chloride replacement products and their effects on chlorine uptake, crop development, yield, and grain quality in canola. Field trials were conducted in 2025 at four Saskatchewan locations: Scott, Indian Head, Swift Current, and Outlook. The experiment used a RBCD with four replications and the treatments included an untreated control and four potassium fertilizer sources (KCl, Pegasus, K-Mag Premium, and Aspire), each applied at two rates (13 and 26 lbs K₂O/ac). Measurements included plant density, canopy closure, tissue chloride and potassium concentrations, grain yield, and seed quality parameters (protein, oil content, and test weight). Across locations, potassium source and rate had limited and inconsistent effects on crop establishment and canopy development. Differences in plant density were observed at Scott and Swift Current, and canopy closure varied at Outlook, but these responses were not consistent across sites. Tissue analysis showed clearer treatment effects. Chloride concentrations increased significantly with chloride-containing fertilizers and higher application rates, particularly at Indian Head and Swift Current. When combined across locations, fertilizer source and rate significantly affected tissue Cl levels, with KCl, Pegasus, and Aspire producing higher chloride concentrations than K-Mag Premium. In contrast, tissue potassium levels were not significantly affected by treatment. Grain yield and seed quality were not significantly influenced by potassium source or rate at any site or across locations. Although some treatments produced slightly higher numerical yields, these differences were not statistically significant. Overall, potassium fertilizer source influenced plant chloride uptake but did not consistently affect yield or grain quality. These results suggest that fertilizer selection should prioritize chloride management and site-specific nutrient requirements rather than expectations of consistent yield response.
