Alberta's Likely Seed Varieties in 2026

Alberta farmers are already looking ahead to the 2026 planting season, scouting out which crop varieties could deliver the best results. After a year of strong yields in 2025, many producers are considering new genetics that promise even better agronomics and resilience. So, what seed varieties are likely to make a splash in Alberta in 2026? Let’s break it down by crop: 

Canola

 Canola growers can expect an influx of new hybrids, including entries from independent companies. Notably, Maizex Seeds (an Ontario-based company) is launching its first canola hybrids for Western Canada in 2026. These Maizex hybrids boast traits like clubroot resistance and strong pod-shatter tolerance – valuable for central Alberta fields.  

On the more established side, BASF’s InVigor lineup will feature improved seed treatments (Modalex™) for 2026 to protect seedlings, and Proven Seed (CPS) is rolling out four new canola hybrids with pod shatter reduction and multi-genome clubroot resistance.  

Farmers are likely to stick with trusted performers like InVigor L340PC or Pioneer P505MS on a portion of acres, but trying a few fields of these newcomers could pay off. With canola prices high, varieties that stand better and reduce harvest losses will be hot commodities. 

Wheat (CWRS & CPS) 

In the hard red spring wheat category, favourites such as AAC Brandon and AAC Starbuck have dominated acres for their yield and protein balance. For 2026, eyes are on newer CWRS varieties like AAC Wheatland VB (midge tolerant) and AAC Marvelous – both offer higher yield potential and stronger disease packages (especially for fusarium head blight).  

Seed suppliers report a lot of bookings for Wheatland VB because midge pressure has been increasing in parts of Alberta, and its resistance can save both yield and grade. In Canadian Prairie Spring (CPS) wheat, expect AAC Goodwin to gain acres; it’s a newer semi-dwarf CPS with big yield bump and good standability.  

Overall, Alberta farmers in 2026 will favour wheat varieties that can withstand drought yet respond to moisture – after seeing how different genetics handled the 2025 weather swings, they’ll choose accordingly. 

Barley 

Malt barley stalwart AAC Synergy remains popular (over 30% of malt acres in Western Canada, and it’s likely to continue in 2026 due to its consistent malt quality and high yield. But there’s excitement around a new six-row barley: AB Fortify. Bred in Alberta to replace older six-row AB Tofield, the new AB Fortify features smooth awns and improved yields, making it a top choice for feed and silage barley in 2026.  

Many mixed farmers who liked Tofield are expected to switch to Fortify for its better lodging resistance and output. Another variety to watch is Sirish (a semi-dwarf two-row feed barley from FP Genetics) – it’s shown top-end yields even under dry conditions.  

With many Alberta barley fields facing drought stress periodically, a reliable yielder like Sirish could see more acres. And for those targeting malt contracts, SY Stanza is emerging as a dual-purpose variety (suitable for malt or feed) that farmers might try on irrigated acres. 

Pulse Crops  

In peas, AAC Chrome yellow pea has become a go-to for yield and disease resistance, and that trend will hold. Newer yellow pea Foresee is also generating buzz for 2026 due to its standability and high protein. Faba beans and lentils remain niche in Alberta, but red lentil varieties like CDC Maxim (early maturity) may see slight upticks in the far south where the season allows. 

Ultimately, Alberta’s likely seed varieties in 2026 reflect a pursuit of higher yield, better standability, and stress tolerance. Farmers will balance sticking with proven performers and experimenting on a portion of their land with these latest-and-greatest genetics. It’s wise to book seed early – some of these varieties, like new barleys or canola, could be in limited supply their first year. 

Your Local Future Ag Dealer in Alberta Has the Right Equipment for Your Seed Varieties

Future Ag stays on the pulse of these trends to support our customers. We know that choosing the right seed goes hand in hand with using the right equipment. Our team can help ensure your seeding equipment – whether it’s a Case IH air drill or a Kubota planter for canola – is calibrated and ready to sow those new varieties precisely for optimal results.  

We’ve also got the parts and technology (like Section Control and variable-rate monitors) to match the needs of these cutting-edge seeds.

As you plan your 2026 crop, consider both the seed genetics and the machinery setup to unlock their full potential. The future looks bright for Alberta crops with these new varieties on the horizon.