The Flax Council of Canada has some advice for farmers looking to grow flax this year.

The organization is strongly encouraging producers to test farm-saved seed prior to planting to maintain the integrity of the seed supply.

It says flax producers were instrumental in the elimination of Triffid from the system, but it's critical that growers continue to use a known source of Triffid-free seed.

The group is also reminding farmers that most new flax varieties are protected by Plant Breeders Rights, which means they can only be sold by an authorized retailer.