Released on May 28, 2026
Producers made significant seeding progress this week, thanks to favourable weather conditions in most of the province. Seeding progress reached 52 per cent, which continues to be behind both the five-year average of 74 per cent and the 10-year average of 77 per cent.
Regionally, the southwest continues to lead seeding progress at 74 per cent complete due to early field access and generally drier conditions. The west-central region is close behind at 69 per cent. Progress in the southeast region reached 61 per cent, and the northwest region reached 55 per cent, with producers continuing to make gains as field conditions improve.
The east-central region is 26 per cent seeded, and the northeast region is just behind at 25 per cent complete. While these regions experienced comparatively slower progress due to less favourable field conditions, seeding activity continues to advance as opportunities allow.
Pulse crops, including lentils and field peas, remain the most advanced in seeding progress, while cereals and oilseed crops continue to expand steadily, contributing to a consistent increase in overall seeded acreage.
Cereal crops
- 74 per cent for durum;
- 52 per cent for spring wheat;
- 50 per cent for barley;
- 45 per cent for triticale;
- 36 per cent for canary seed; and
- 26 per cent for oats.
Pulse crops
- 77 per cent for field peas;
- 76 per cent for lentils; and
- 55 per cent for chickpeas.
Oilseed crops
- 56 per cent for mustard;
- 38 per cent for canola; and
- 34 per cent for flax.
Perennial forages
- 23 per cent.
Rainfall varied across the province this past week, with the highest amount reported in the Martin area at 60 millimetres (mm). The Craik area received 59 mm, the Fertile Belt area received 45 mm, while the Stanley and Abernethy areas received 40 mm, respectively.
Overall, topsoil moisture levels remained relatively stable, despite some areas receiving precipitation alongside high temperatures and windy conditions.
Cropland topsoil moisture is:
- 19 per cent surplus;
- 70 per cent adequate; and
- 11 per cent short.
Hayland topsoil moisture is:
- 14 per cent surplus;
- 70 per cent adequate; and
- 16 per cent short.
Pasture topsoil moisture is:
- Nine per cent surplus;
- 68 per cent adequate;
- 20 per cent short; and
- Three per cent very short.
Crop development varies due to localized weather, leading to differences in temperature and moisture. Currently, fall cereals are at 58 per cent of normal development, with one per cent ahead and 41 per cent behind in development. Spring cereals are 37 per cent normal, 63 per cent behind. Pulse crops are 45 per cent normal and 55 per cent behind. Oilseeds are at 27 per cent of their normal stage of development and 73 per cent behind. Perennial forage is 50 per cent at normal development, with two per cent ahead and 48 per cent behind. Annual forage is at 39 per cent normal development, with two per cent ahead and 59 per cent behind.
Crop development remains generally behind across all categories, with minimal acres ahead of normal. Oilseeds and spring-seeded crops are showing the greatest delays, while fall cereals and perennial forage are closer to expected stages.
Crop damage across the province was generally minor. Some producers reported localized damage caused by flooding, wind, frost and gophers. In addition, dry conditions and periods of heat contributed to minor crop stress in certain areas. Insect activity was observed, with some producers implementing control measures where populations warranted intervention.
If weather conditions remain favourable, most producers anticipate that seeding will progress rapidly next week. In addition to seeding, producers are busy moving cattle to pasture, applying herbicides and land-rolling.
As producers continue with seeding and field operations, they are encouraged to prioritize safety in all activities. The Farm Stress Line is available to provide confidential support for producers toll-free at 1-800-667-4442.
A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online.
-30-
For more information, contact: