Plant Growth Regulator (PGR) Options for Barley

The plant growth regulator chlormequat chloride (Manipulator) has been updated to Yellow/Be Informed under Keep it Clean for use on all Barley in Canada (malt, feed and food). Malting barley had previously been classified as yellow. This classification is a signal to producers to check with their grain buyers before using Manipulator on barley to ensure it will be accepted. Most malting companies and some grain companies have signalled they will not accept barley treated with Manipulator. Manipulator is classified as green/acceptable for wheat and oats.

Researchers on the Prairies have been working with chlormequat chloride (Manipulator) and trinexepac-ethyl (Moddus) to evaluate effectiveness on barley. Agronomists at Alberta Barley, Manitoba Crop Alliance and SaskBarley summarized the results and best practices.

View or download the PDF here.