Hybrid brassicas offer solution to forage shortage

FAST-GROWING hybrid brassicas could help livestock farmers facing the prospect of forage shortages, says an expert.

Modern New Zealand-bred rape/kale varieties such as Swift and Redstart can be sown from late April through to August to produce quality fodder within 10 weeks, said Helen Mathieu of British Seed Houses.

“They can provide a ready and cost effective supply of high energy grazing for cattle and sheep and could be particularly valuable this season if livestock farmers find that slow grass growth this spring creates forage shortages later.”

The best method of establishment is to drill into a fine, firm and residual-free seedbed achieved through conventional cultivations, but under the right conditions seed can be direct drilled.

“Using seed that is dressed with an effective all-in-one seed treatment will minimise the risks of pest, disease and even bird damage through to seedling stage,” said Ms Mathieu.

Soils should be tested in advance so nutrient levels can be corrected in the seedbed through fertilisation, she added. Additional nitrogen may be appropriate at different stages to ensure maximum returns.

“These crops are economic to grow and will provide the best returns grown to their full potential. Swift or Redstart can produce up to 10 tonnes DM/ha, which equates to just a few pence per kilogram of dry matter.

“Crops grown for summer or early autumn grazing also have the capacity for regrowth, so can offer a second or even third grazing provided earlier grazing are managed appropriately.”

Hybrid brassicas were also suitable for out-wintering when sown later in the season, as they had similar frost resistance to winter-tolerant kales.