Plant growth regulator (PGR) Manipulator is available for use on oats and barley, in addition to wheat, for the 2020 growing season.
The PGR that provides the active ingredient of chlormequat chloride, makes plants develop shorter, thicker stalks to prevent lodging even when pushing higher nitrogen rates for more yield or protein.
When using any product, it’s important to know whether or not buyers and/or end-users will accept a crop treated with a particular product. For 2020, the Keep It Clean Program has Manipulator on wheat, and oats has a “no recommendations/green” classification. Manipulator on barley for feed and silage also carries a “no recommendations/green” classification, however, barley grown for malt carries a “be informed/amber” classification for the 2020 growing season.
Producers growing malt barley under contract are encouraged to consult with their grain buyer prior to using Manipulator on barley. Some barley contracts may restrict against the use of Manipulator, says Belchim Crop Protection Canada. Similarly, producers growing barley without a malt contract, but intending to sell their barley as malt quality, should also consult with their grain buyer. Failure to consult with your grain buyer prior to the use of Manipulator on malt barley could result in rejection. There are no restrictions on the use of Manipulator on feed barley.
