Stem rot can be hard to quantify in canola crops because weather conditions and canopy development affects measured inoculum levels and thus prediction models. This study proposes to help with the assessment of inoculum levels and how weather affects stem rot to have more effective fungicide applications. Also, to study how seeding rates affect canopy development and fungicide penetration/coverage to help management practices. Farmers and industry will benefit directly from the proposed research since it will improve their ability to assess the risk of sclerotinia stem rot and need for fungicide application, while allowing them to get the most out of the fungicides based on risk, crop development, and improved canopy coverage.