BRASSICA AND FORAGE CROPPING GUIDE

Transcription

BRASSICA AND FORAGE
CROPPING
GUIDE
Section 1
Introduction
Agricom – A Profile
Forage crops are a valuable tool for meeting the changing feed
and energy requirements of a livestock operation throughout the
year. Feed supply and stock performance can be manipulated
through the use of different brassica and herb species. Agricom
recognised the integral role of brassicas, invested in breeding
and research, and is now proud to supply products specifically
bred for New Zealand’s farming systems.
From Small Beginnings
Understanding the breeding process (Figure 1) is useful when
considering the purchasing of a new product. Agricom products
have progressed through each step including extensive offsite evaluation in different environments and farming systems.
Farmers can buy Agricom products with confidence, knowing
they come from a highly developed breeding programme, and
are backed by strong technical support to retailers and farmers
alike.
Why Consider Brassicas?
Brassica crops can offer a superior feed supply, both in terms
of quantity and quality, in many situations. They provide an
excellent source of energy and protein for grazing stock. Use
of a brassica crop should be considered in any situation where
pasture quantity or quality is limiting the potential production of
your livestock. The most common situations are as follows:
Young-stock finishing in early summer – feed for postweaning period, where feed demands increase at a time when
vegetative pasture growth rates are falling.
Mid-late summer feed for all stock classes – at a time
when pastures are of a low quality and low moisture levels are
impacting on pasture growth.
Summer “safe” feed – a parasite/pathogen free grazing
environment, to avoid stock health issues related to endophyte
effects, worms, facial eczema etc.
Autumn feed – to support an increased stocking rate, required
when paddocks are removed for pasture renewal.
Winter feed – maintenance feed for stock when pasture growth
is limited, allows stock to be held on small areas, thereby
building the amount of valuable, high quality early-spring feed.
Also avoids widespread pasture damage in wet conditions.
Winter stock-finishing – large quantities of quality feed
suitable for finishing. For example, cattle and winter-lamb
contracts.
Break crop for renovation programme of sub-standard
pastures – if managed well, brassicas will provide a significant
drymatter contribution, minimal time out of production, a useful
system for assisting in weed and disease clean up for prepasture establishment, and a good opportunity for improving
fertility status. Brassicas are particularly useful in avoiding
ryegrass seeding over the summer prior to establishment of an
AR1 or AR37 endophyte grass variety.
Figure 1. The Plant Breeding Process
Plant genetics collection
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Plant crossings
Agronomic evaluation
Market evaluation
Commercial release
Cultivar Information
Which Multiple Grazing Brassica Should I Use?
Hunter (Brassica rapa spp. campestris) is a hybrid cross
between a turnip and a rape, producing one of the fastest
maturing brassicas, with a look most like a leafy, non-bulb
producing turnip.
These different genetic make-ups have conferred very different
characteristics.
The following diagram (Figure 2) summarises these
characteristics and how they relate to their suitability for
different farming systems.
Winfred (Brassica napus) is a cross between a turnip and a kale,
traditionally termed a rape.
More than 8 weeks
Low/med
Sporadic
Feed requirement
Soil fertility
Summer moisture
Section 2
Brassicas
Figure 2. A Simplified Decision Making Tool for Choosing the Right
Multiple Grazing Forage Brassica for Your Farming System
Less than 8 weeks
Med/high
October-sown Winfred ready to be
grazed by late-December to earlyJanuary.
Reliable
Late-October-sown Hunter ready for
grazing by early-December.
Please refer to pages 20-23 for
detailed brassica information
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Product Usage
Hunter is a quick-growing, leafy turnip, with minimal bulb
development and is best suited to multiple grazings. Hunter
was selected for vigorous regrowth, providing a variety with
fast recovery from grazing and excellent ability to yield in the
second, third and sometimes fourth regrowth cycles.
Section 2
Brassicas
Plants usually show good resistance to most clubroot races,
but they are susceptible to drought and aphids, and are best
suited to heavier soil conditions with periodic summer moisture
or irrigation.
Hunter is ideal for lamb finishing and suitable for most stock
class.
Performance
Figure 3. Hybrid Brassica Drymatter Production Trial
Lincoln, Canterbury
Sown 25/10/07, Average Rainfall 660 mm
Supplementary irrigation of approximately 80 mm
12000
a
b
Hunter can be ready for grazing 6-8 weeks after planting
c
Yield (kg DM/ha)
10000
8000
a
6000
4000
a
a
a
a
b
b
c
c
2000
0
1 (Dec 17)
2 (Jan 25)
3 (April 1)
Total
Grazing
Hunter
Pacer
Tyfon
Statistical Significance:
Letters that are different indicate a statistical difference
while overlapping letters indicate no difference
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To maximise productivity per hectare, lamb finishers should target
a grazing residual as pictured above. Utilising more than this leads to
lower lamb production per hectare through reduced growth rates. (Refer
to page 21 for a full visual grazing guide).
Maximising Returns From Hunter
February
possible
The experiment investigated the effect of daily allowance on the production of
liveweight per hectare in a rotationally-grazed Hunter finishing system, with the
view of determining optimum grazing parameters.
Suggested
Sowing
Rate Alone
(kg/ha)
4
4
At allowances of 1 kg DM/hd/day or less, where grazing residual was low, the
crop produced little regrowth, lamb growth rates were poor (25-75 g/day) and
production per hectare was not maximised (2-5 kg LWG/ha/day).
Time to
First
Grazing
6-8 wks
8-10 wks
At generous allowances (3.5 kg DM/hd/day) where grazing residual was high
(3000 kg DM/ha) and where lamb growth rates were high (300 g/day), per
hectare production was still not maximised (7 kg LWG/ha/day) because of low
stocking rates.
Number of
Potential
Grazings
3-4
2-3
The key message from this work was that per hectare productivity was maximised
(12 kg LWG/ha/day) at an allowance of 2.0-2.5 kg DM/hd/day where lambs grew
at 300 g/day allowance. Grazing residual, also has a dramatic effect on the survival
of Hunter plants (Figure 7, page 7).
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)*
10-12
10-12
*depending on number of grazings
• Excellentqualityforageforfinishing
animals through the summer months
14.00
12.00
• Fastrecoveryfromgrazingwith
excellent subsequent yields
10.00
8.00
• Strongplantsurvivalfrom
multiple grazings
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
Daily allowance (kg DM/hd/day)
4.00
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Section 5
Brassica User Guide
Liveweight gain/ha (kg LWG/ha/day)
• Early-maturing,6-8weekswith
minimal ripening requirement
Section 4
Herbs and Legumes
Figure 4. Effect of Allowance on Production/ha
Section 3
Cereals
Mid October to
November
Section 2
Brassicas
Suggested
Sowing
Time
Section 1
Introduction
Leaf turnips like Hunter have become a widely used feed source for finishing
lambs. It is common to set-stock lambs on the crop and draft them off as they
reach target weights. An experiment by Agricom researchers suggests it is
unlikely this grazing management makes the most efficient use of the Hunter
crop.
5
Product Usage
Winfred is a very versatile brassica, being suited to a wide
range of soil fertility and environmental conditions, and is either
spring and/or late-summer sown.
Section 2
Brassicas
It is well suited to dryland conditions where it has a very
good record of on-farm performance. Winfred has proven
to have excellent grazing tolerance, making it very reliable for
multi-grazing.
Winfred is particularly good for lamb finishing in summer-dry
regions and has good application in deer, beef and other drystock operations.
Winfred Forage Systems
Due to early-grazing and multiple opportunities to graze regrowth,
Winfred can be sown with Tonic plantain, chicory (eg. Choice) and
red and white clover (eg. Sensation and Tribute) providing a springsown crop that may last at least 12 to 18 months (Figure 5).
Pre-grazing mass at which the trial
on page 7 was conducted. Results
mentioned may vary in taller crops.
Target post-grazing residual for
Winfred to maximise liveweight
gain per hectare. (See page 7)
Figure 5. Winfred Forage Systems
Option
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
1
Winfred Only
2
Winfred Only
Winfred Only
3
Winfred Only
Winfred + grass
Spring
Summer
grass
4
Winfred + Tonic
Winfred + Tonic
5
Winfred + herbs + clovers
herbs + clovers
6
Winfred + grass + herbs + clovers
grass + herbs + clovers
7
Winfred Only
8
grass + herbs + clovers + Winfred
Winfred
dominant crop
Sowing of new species
into existing crop
Transitional
crop
Decision on
continuation of crop
grass + herbs + clovers
Non-brassica
options
Note: Best results will be achieved using Winfred forage brassica.
Hunter forage brassica can be used in these situations under summer moist conditions.
Grass – short-term or perennial ryegrass.
Herbs – active cool-season species are most successful in this system. eg: Choice chicory and/or Tonic plantain.
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Maximising Returns From Winfred
Experiments by Agricom researchers have focused on identifying the appropriate
grazing management of Winfred to maximise animal productivity.
The effect of daily allowance on liveweight gain per head and per hectare on
mid-height crops in a rotationally grazed system was established (Figure 6).
At allowances of around
2.5 kg DM/hd/day, liveweight
gain per hectare was maximised
(14 kg LWG/ha/day).
350
16
300
14
12
250
10
200
8
150
6
100
4
50
LWG/ha (kg/day)
LWG/hd (g/day)
At generous allowances (3.5 kg DM/
hd/day), per hectare production was
not maximised because despite lambs
growing rapidly (320 g/day), stocking
rates were low (38 lambs/ha).
Figure 6. Effect of Daily Allowance of
Winfred on Liveweight Gain
0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4
Allowance (kg DM/hd/day)
LWG/hd
LWG/ha
Figure 7. The Effect of Daily Allowance (kg DM/hd/day) on Plant Survival.
Hunter measured at 7 allowances, Winfred only measured at 4 allowances.
Plant Survival (%)
February to
March
Suggested
Sowing
Rate Alone
(kg/ha)
3-4
3-4
10-12 wks
10-12 wks
Number of
Potential
Grazings
3-4
1-2
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)*
10-12
5-8
Time to
First
Grazing
2
0
Further Agricom research has found that moving lambs twice-weekly,
or weekly, is more productive than longer grazing durations.
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Mid October to
early November
Section 2
Brassicas
At low allowances, liveweight gain
per hectare was not maximised
because despite high stocking
rates (92 lambs/ha), lambs grew
slowly. Slow growth (50 g/day) was
a consequence of restricted intake.
Suggested
Sowing
Time
Winfred
Hunter
• Early-maturing,10-12weeks
• Regrowthpotentialfor3-4grazings
• Fastrecoveryfromgrazingwith
excellent subsequent yields
• Idealformixingwithherbsandclover
0.75
1
1.5
2
2.5
Daily Allowance (kg DM/hd/day)
3
3.5
Increasing grazing intensity, (i.e. low daily allowance), and consequently leaving
a lower post-grazing residual, had a minor effect on the survival of Winfred
plants, but a much larger effect on Hunter plants (Figure 7). Heavy grazing
removed up to 70% of Hunter plants but only 20% of Winfred plants. Plant
survival is an important component of regrowth yield.
Maximising productivity per hectare comes
from optimising grazing parameters. To achieve
maximum liveweight gain per hectare, lamb
producers grazing mid-height crops (75 cm) should
look for stock to eat essentially all leaf laminae,
all petiole, and no more than one third of the stem.
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Product Usage
Sovereign is a very popular kale that combines quality with a
good yield potential. Sovereign has a very high top-end yield
potential, although average yields are around 12-14 t/ha,
depending on management and environment.
Section 2
Brassicas
The majority of Sovereign sowings occur from late-November
through to mid-December. These are most suited to dairy
cows, heifers, sheep and beef.
8
Earlier sowings can be used and these are often lightly grazed
by lambs through February before being used for winter feed
by other stock classes.
Sovereign can be successfully sown from late-January to midFebruary for mid to late-winter feed. These sowing dates
provide a lower yield potential, more similar to rape, but a very
high quality feed with excellent utilisation potential for heifers,
hoggets, deer and even lambs.
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Understanding Your Kale Plant – Grazing Implications
Crop Yield
Crop yield is heavily influenced by a number of factors including fertility and
environmental conditions through the growing season.
Kale Plant Composition
The leaves of kale plants are high quality regardless of the type of kale.
The quality of the stem of kale decreases from the top to the bottom. Sovereign
generally has a higher quality throughout the stem than giant types. From the
middle of the kale stem to ground level, quality reduces quickly to low levels at
the bottom of the plant.
Table 1. Botanical Composition of Different Styles of Kales and the
Associated Quality (Mean of 49 Paddocks of Kale).
(Judson and Edwards, 2008) (In Press).
Medium Stem
Sovereign
Plant Part
Giant Types
(Gruner, Burley, Rawara)
% of Total
DM
Energy
MJ ME/kg
DM
Diet
ME*
% of Total
DM
Energy
MJ ME/kg
DM
Diet
ME
Leaf
44
12.9
12.9
24
12.7
12.7
Upper stem
11
12.4
12.8
17
11.6
12.2
Upper mid
14
11.6
12.6
19
9.7
11.4
Lower mid
15
9.4
12.0
20
9.8
11.0
Lower
16
8.6
11.5
20
6.6
10.1
* Diet ME refers to the average quantity of the diet as more kale components are eaten.
Implications of Utilisation for Diet Quality
When aiming to improve body condition of cows grazing kale it is important
to understand the influence of utilisation on total diet quality. When 84% is
utilised the overall diet quality for Sovereign (12 MJ ME/kg DM) is higher than
giant types (11 MJ ME/kg DM). To achieve the same diet quality relative to
Sovereign at 84% utilisation, giant types could only be utilised to 50% and
much more of the stem would have to be left ungrazed.
Late
November
to late
December
Late
January
to mid
February
Late
October
Suggested
Sowing
Rate
(kg/ha)
4
4
4
18-24
wks
14-18
wks
14-16 wks
around
February for
first grazing
Number of
Potential
Grazings
1
1
2
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)*
Average
= 12-14
Top = 18
8-10
Time to
First
Grazing
Section 2
Brassicas
There is considerable variation between kale cultivars in the relative proportion
of leaf and stem, and the various qualities of these plant components. In general,
Sovereign has a higher percentage of leaf than giant types. This difference
in composition is consistent, but the actual proportions are influenced by
environmental conditions.
Suggested
Sowing
Time
Accumulated
= 14-15
• Medium-tallkalewithexcellent
yield potential
• Late-floweringvarietythatmaintains
leafy crops into early-September
• Goodleaf-to-stemratiofor
yield potential
• Relativelythin-stemmedvariety,
particularly when compared to
giant kales
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9
Section 2
Brassicas
Product Usage
Suggested
Sowing
Time
Late November to early December
Suggested
Sowing
Rate Alone
(kg/ha)
0.5 in
60 cm ridges
Time to
First
Grazing
24-30 wks
Number of
Potential
Grazings
1
(possibly tops in
February March)
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)
Average = 12-14
Top = 18+
Dominion has a good record of performance and is an excellent traditional
first-crop yellow-fleshed swede. Dominion is suitable for sheep, dairy, beef and
deer.
Dominion is not recommended as a
second-crop swede and should not
be sown after any brassica.
Dominion is an early-maturing soft
swede which is often preferentially
grazed in May and early-June. As
Dominion is a soft swede, the practice
of grazing the leaf with lambs and
hoggets in autumn requires careful
monitoring as the chipping of bulbs
can occur very early on in the grazing.
Bulb chipping can lead to diseases
infecting the damaged bulb prior to
the main grazing period.
Dominion is very palatable.
• High-yielding,yellow-fleshed,
first-crop swede
• Goodleafretentioninwinterforitstype
• Excellentpalatability
• Verygoodtableswede
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Centre two rows showing early-season
preferred grazing of Dominion.
Dominion growing in ash soils near Taupo,
inthecentralNorthIsland.
Product Usage
Rival is ideally used as part of a pasture renovation programme on dairy farms
that have a period of dry, or a loss of pasture quality, through January and
February.
Growing a Rival crop provides a standing volume of high energy and protein feed,
which helps maintain milk production under periods of environmental stress.
Rival is a high-performing cultivar, with a higher leaf proportion than some other
turnip varities, ensuring high quality at grazing (Table 2).
Table 2. Plant Density at Harvest and the Yield Components and Total Yield
(kg DM/ha) of Summer Turnips Sown in Kihikihi - Waikato on the 7th November 07
and Harvested on the 29th January 08, 83 Days After Sowing
Names
Plants/m
Leaf Yield kg
DM/ha
Bulb Yield kg
DM/ha
Total Yield kg
DM/ha
Rival
Barkant
Dynamo
Marco
Emax
61
43
57
45
43
6351
5902
4307
4206
4121
3490
3577
4788
4768
4530
9841
9479
9095
8974
8652
LSD (5%)
14
1746
1385
2342
2
Late October to early November
Suggested
Sowing
Rate
(kg/ha)
Varies depending on quality of
preparation – range 1.5-3
Time to
First
Grazing
12-14 wks
Number of
Potential
Grazings
1
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)
Average = 8-12
Top = 14+
Section 2
Brassicas
Summer turnips should never make up more than 5 kg DM, or one third of a
cow’s diet.
Suggested
Sowing
Time
• Early-maturingdiploidsummerturnip
• Excellentleafproductionand
leaf holding
• Tankardbulbwithhighproportion
above ground
Rival turnips being utilised as a high source of protein
andMEthroughsummerinTaranaki.
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11
Section 2
Brassicas
Product Usage
New York is modern version of a traditional late-autumn and early-winter feed
turnip. It has also performed very well as a spring-sown medium to latematurity summer turnip, and fits very well in conjunction with Rival where the
early-grazed Rival makes up two thirds of the area and New York provides the
last third of the area to be grazed.
Suggested
Sowing
Time
January
February
Late October to
early November
Suggested
Sowing
Rate Alone
(kg/ha)
1-2
Varies depending
on quality of
preparation –
range 1.5-3
18-20 wks
16 wks
When used as a winter feed-crop, bulb development in all late-summer sown
turnips is heavily influenced by how early the crop is sown and how much
space each plant has to develop significant bulbs. New York is often mixed
with Italian or annual ryegrass, this increased competition often limits final bulb
size. In these circumstances the extra leaf production becomes invaluable at
that time of the year.
1
New York has performed strongly as a later-holding summer turnip (Table 3).
Summer turnips should never make up more than 5 kgs or one third of a cows
diet.
Time to
First
Grazing
Number of
Potential
Grazings
Potential
Yield
(t/DM/ha)
1
Average = 6-8
Average = 8-12
Top = 14+
• Medium-maturityatapproximately
16-18 weeks
Table 3. Plant Density at Harvest and the Yield Components and Total yield
(kg DM/ha) of Summer Turnips Sown in Te Miro - Waikato on the 19th November
07 and Harvested on the 30th January 08, 72 Days After Sowing
Names
Plants/m2
Leaf Yield
kg DM/ha
Bulb Yield
kg DM/ha
Total Yield
kg DM/ha
New York
White Star
Green Globe
38
35
30
4837
5096
4669
3701
2622
2232
8538
7718
6901
LSD (5%)
16
1508
1401
2742
• Excellentyieldpotentialwithan
improved leaf-to-bulb ratio
• Bredforimprovedturnipmosaic
virus tolerance
• Full-leavedvariety(notsegmented)
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New Yorkturnipiswhite-fleshedwithanovalbulb.
Herbs and Clovers with Forage Brassicas
The increasing popularity of the pasture herbs plantain and
chicory is a result of the real benefits they provide to farm
production and animal well-being. Establishing herbs and
clovers with a multiple grazing brassica, e.g. Winfred, can
improve the regrowth potential of the crop in repeat grazing
situations, or can be a useful method of establishing these
companion species for future pasture sow-downs.
The addition of herbs to a multiple grazing brassica can have
the following benefits;
• Production and persistence in dry periods, with rapid
recovery when soil moisture improves.
• Providescontinuedgrowthundercoldconditions.
• Mayreducetheanimalhealthissuesthatcanariseonasole
brassica diet.
• Providesanestablishedherbbaseforthedirect-drillingof
grass and clover species into the run-out brassica crop.
In a typical pasture renovation, when herbs and clovers are
By combining herbs and clovers with a brassica crop the
potential benefits are;
• The brassica can act as a cover crop to these slower
establishing species.
• Theredcloverandherbswillprovideasmallbuthighquality
contribution to the diet.
• Herbswillactasamineralsupplement.
• Anextendedrangeofoptionsattheendofthebrassicalife.
• Subsequent pastures will have a strong legume and herb
content relative to a traditionally established pasture.
Section 2
Brassicas
• Providesvarietyinthediet,withagreatermineralavailability
than a brassica crop alone.
• Increasestotalcropproduction.
established with grass, they may be disadvantaged in terms of
establishment rate and the subsequent grazing management
of the sward. Adding red clover and/or plantain and chicory
with a multiple-grazing brassica is a valuable establishment
tool, when used in conjunction with subsequent direct-drilling
of grass species.
Herbs should not be mixed with brassica when that crop is
being used to remove weeds from a paddock, because the
herbs are sensitive to the brassica herbicides that would be
used.
Suggested Brassica and Herb Pasture Mixes
Winfred forage brassica & Choice chicory mix
Suited to longer rotations and better chicory growing conditions
Winfred forage brassica
3.5 kg/ha
Grasslands Choice chicory
3 kg/ha
Grasslands Colenso red clover
4 kg/ha
Grasslands Tribute white clover
2 kg/ha
Winfred forage brassica & Tonic plantain mix
Can cope with a wider range of soil conditions
and shorter grazing intervals
Winfred forage brassica
3.5 kg/ha
Ceres Tonic plantain
3 kg/ha
Grasslands Tribute white clover
3.5 kg/ha
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13
Brassica Crop Husbandry
Successful Brassica Establishment
Planning
Planning is the key to success. Your planning check-list should
include the following;
Paddock selection
Questions to ask when selecting paddocks;
Section 2
Brassicas
• Which paddocks have poor-performing pastures? Have
undesirablespecies?Lowlegumecontent?
• Has fertility status been limiting pasture production? Will
this need addressing to ensure a good brassica crop and a
successfulrenovationphase?
• Is the paddock selected in close proximity to a run-off
paddock,supplementaryfeedsource,watersupply?
• Howeasilywillthepaddockbesubdivided?
• Is the right farm equipment available for successful
subdivisionorpaddockwatersupplyrequirementsetc?
• Whatistheproposedcropsequenceforthispaddock?
• Doanyotherissuesneedaddressingpriortoapermanent
sow-down, e.g. elimination of volunteer ryegrass before
AR1/AR37endophyteryegrassestablishment?
Pre-sowing preparation
• Successful weed control starts with careful identification
of species, growth stage and vigour. This will determine
herbicide selection. Seek advice from a technical
representative for specific recommendations.
• Early workings should aim to stimulate weed germination
(ideally 2 months pre-sowing).
• Aim for a moist, fine, firm seedbed, allowing the small
brassica seed to be planted at an even 1 cm depth.
Planting
Conventional cultivation
Conventional cultivation is generally the most reliable way of
eliminating weeds and establishing brassicas. Best practice
is the broadcasting of fertiliser prior to planting. For a minimal
pass operation, pull hoses out of coulters and drop fertiliser in a
surface band, with incorporation by light harrowing and rolling.
14
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Direct-drilling
Direct-drilling is suitable if spray control of weeds is successful
and fertiliser applications are considered carefully. For detailed
information on no-tillage and direct-drilling refer to “Successful
No-Tillage in Crop and Pasture Establishment”, Ritchie et al, 2000.
Nitrogen (N) applications are a key component of successful
establishment from direct-drilling. Under no-tillage regimes,
crop residues are broken down by microbial activity (not
burning, oxidation or mineralisation as in tillage systems) that
temporarily locks up nitrogen. Therefore N will not be available
at the time of the brassica establishment, and hence this delay
in N availability needs to be compensated for at sowing time.
Ridging
Ridging effectively provides a raised seedbed for establishment
away from excess moisture. It is best suited to use in wetter climates.
Broadcasting
Broadcasting, (the scattering of seed onto a worked seedbed),
can be successful, but a higher sowing rate and subsequent
light harrowing and rolling is recommended.
Refer to individual species for specific sowing information.
Best practice establishment techniques should include the use
of a commercial seed treatment for seedling protection.
Fertiliser guidelines for brassicas
Typically, less productive pastures are sown out into brassicas,
often meaning they are established into less than optimum
conditions. Brassicas tend to differ from other crops in certain
aspects of their fertiliser requirements. Brassica yields are
sensitive to nitrogen and phosphorus status. In addition,
boron deficiency may impact on plant health, especially in the
bulb brassicas. The seed is particularly prone to germination
injury if soluble fertiliser or boron is placed too near the seed.
Inappropriate levels of certain nutrients can induce animal
disorders e.g. the sulphur compound S-Methyl Cysteine
Sulphoxide (SMCO).
Table 4. Optimum Soil Fertility Status (MAF Quick Test)
Soil test
Olsen P
Sulphate-S
Soil test K
Soil test Mg
pH
Ranges (for near maximum
production)
20-30
3-8
5+
8+
5.9-6.2
Table 5. General Fertiliser Application*
Nutrient
Nitrogen**
Phosphate
Potassium
Sulphur
Application (kg/ha)
40-100
40-100
0-100
20-30
**Split dressing of 0-50 kg N/ha at sowing and 0-50 kg N/ha 4-6 weeks
after sowing.
For paddock specific fertiliser recommendations contact
your local fertiliser representative.
In many cases farmers do not see brassica crops reach their full
potential because P levels are limiting growth. Ideally P status should
be 20+. Low inputs (20-30 kg/ha) are only suitable to high fertility
soils or where crop yield is not important. Most crops will benefit
from rates of 40-50 kg/ha, and swedes at a higher rate of 60-70 kg/
ha. DAP is a good way to provide P to brassicas. The opportunity for
lifting of P status should also be considered at this time.
Sulphur (S)
Sulphur deficiency is characterised by stunted, pale or yellowed
growth (particularly the young growth) and leaf curling and
distortion. It is not necessary to use sulphur on brassicas unless
S levels are low (2-3).
Boron (B)
The condition “brown heart” in bulb brassicas is the most common
symptom of boron deficiency. Other brassicas may show swelling,
hollowing, browning and rotting of stems.
Section 2
Brassicas
*When optimum soil fertility is present, the following fertiliser needs to be
applied to support good crop growth.
Phosphorus (P)
Early purpling, stunted and erect leaves are an indicator of P
deficiency (this can also be induced by cool weather, so herbage
testing is the best form of identification).
Brassica crops have a greater requirement for B than grasses.
Boron deficiencies are more likely to occur on light textured soils
with less organic matter to retain soil B from leaching. Do not
put boron down the spout with the seed. See Table 6B on brown
heart.
Nitrogen (N)
Paleness (yellow and/or reddening and old leaf dieback) usually
indicates N deficiency.
The amount of N required for successful crop growth is dependent
upon the paddock history. When establishing a brassica into a
runout pasture, the crop will require starter N and several side
dressings of urea. This is especially true in direct-drilling situations.
Applications of 90-100 kg/ha of urea per dressing are sufficient.
Nitrogen can be applied directly after grazing for the multiple
grazing summer brassicas, although vigilance to any stock health
issues is recommended at the next grazing. Starter N only may be
enough in areas where N levels are good. Excessive N will increase
the risk of nitrate problems with grazing stock, and increase leaf
growth at the expense of bulb growth in bulb crops.
A fertiliser spill in a kale crop. An example of the potential of the crop
given optimum fertility conditions.
Soil pH
Brassicas can tolerate a range of pH levels, but preferably above 5.7.
Liming will reduce clubroot infection and increase soil molybdenum
availability. Lime works best when incorporated into soil.
www.agricom.co.nz
15
Brassica Pests and Disease Summer Guide
Brassica establishment can be compromised by occasional
localised and seasonal pest and disease attack. Their impact
can usually be minimised by management. Once established,
brassicas are normally relatively disease-free compared with
other crops.
Table 6A. Key Pests and Diseases Affecting Brassica Seedlings
Condition
Impact on Plant
Control
Springtails (Bourletiella spp.)
Attack cotyledons and emerging plants, smooth
edge damage, damaging until the 4 leaf stage
Chemical, seed coating treatment, crop
rotation and hygiene
Greasy Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon aneituma)
Plants, especially seedlings are ripped off at or
just below ground level, young plants wilt
Chemical, crop rotation and hygiene
Grass Grub
(Costelytra zealandica)
Adults attack young growing points, larvae
damage seedling roots
Chemical, crop rotation and hygiene
Wheat Bug (Nysius huttoni)
Ring barking of seedlings at ground level leaves
plants susceptible to other attacks, damage is
similar to that caused by wirestem
Chemical, seed coating treatment
Weevils (Catopes spp.)
Chew cotyledons or stem at ground level,
scalloping of leaf edge
Chemical
Slugs (many spp.)
Creates severe damage to brassica plants by
destroying seedlings
Minimise crop residual or trash before directdrilling, use slug baits, cultivate paddocks
Brown lesion at ground level, narrowing of root
and stem base, often caused by strangles,
damage similar to that caused by wheat bug.
Strangles – damage to sap flow from abrasion
at ground level by wind etc. Affected tissue
susceptible to fungal attack (wirestem)
Chemical, seed coating treatment
Section 2
Brassicas
Seedling Insect Pests
Fungal Diseases
Wirestem (Rhizoctonia solani) / Strangles
Pest damage during establishment
16
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Slug damage in kale
Leaf miner damage
Table 6B. Key Pests in Established Crops
Condition
Impact on Plant
Control
Aphids (many species)
Sap suckers that weaken plants, reduce yields,
carry viral diseases, mainly attack summer crops
Chemical, tolerant cultivars, some resistant cultivars
to some aphid species, seed coating treatment
Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella)
Young larvae burrow in and feed on internal leaf
tissue, older larvae feed on lower leaf surface, larvae
damage is often holes, some quite large, similar to
white butterfly caterpillar
Chemical
White Butterfly (Pieris rapae)
Leaf feeding leaves a skeletonised leaf with leaf ribs
remaining
Chemical
Leaf Miners (many species)
Larvae create tunnels and live within leaf tissue,
tissue damage may reduce photosynthetic activity
and causes leaf yellowing, premature leaf death, and
limit growth at this time. Damage is similar to that
caused by the Diamondback moth
Chemical
Turnip Mosaic
Stunted growth, mottling and crinkling of leaves,
yellowing, leaf death, poor bulb development
Control of vector aphids
Beet Western Yellows
General stunted growth, purpling of leaves
Cauliflower Mosaic
Poor vigour, can attack all brassica species
Clubroot (Plasmodiophora spp.)
Causes irregular swelling of root, leaf wilting,
stunted growth, plant death
Crop rotation (6 years in high risk areas), hygiene,
resistant cultivars
Dry Rot (Leptosphaeria maculans)
Affects swedes mainly, small sunken brown – grey
circular spots on leaf or bulb neck, plant death
Crop rotation and hygiene, resistant cultivars, later
sowing
Ring Spot (Mycosphaerella brassicicola)
Small dark spots on older leaves in cool wet conditions
Crop rotation
Leaf Spot (Alternaria spp.)
Small dark lesions and dark sooty mould on leaves,
may lower yields
Chemical
Black Rot (Xanthomonas campestris)
Attack on vascular system in warm humid conditions,
yellowing of leaf margins, wilting, leaf loss
Crop rotation
Boron deficiency, affects swedes and turnips
Soil testing, B fertiliser applications
Plant Pests
Section 2
Brassicas
Viruses
Fungal Diseases
Nutrient Deficiencies
Brown Heart
Adapted from: Charlton and Stewart, 2006. Pasture and Forage Plant for New Zealand, 3rd edition.
Please refer to pages 20-23 for detailed brassica information
www.agricom.co.nz
17
Brassica Seed Treatment
Trial Results
Section 2
Brassicas
1. A systemic insecticide to control Springtail, Aphids,
Nysius (Wheat Bug) and Argentine Stem Weevil during plant
establishment. Springtail and Aphids are the pests most
frequently responsible for brassica crop failures during
establishment. Under good growing conditions ULTRASTRIKE®
will provide 10 weeks protection against Aphids.
2. Two contact fungicides effective against the ‘damping off’
diseases Pythium, Fusarium and Rhizoctonia Solani (wirestem).
3. Molybdenum, an essential trace element for general brassica
growth and to reduce the risk of ‘whiptail’, which causes a
reduction in leaf size and irregularities in leaf formation.
4. Bird repellent, which is important for broadcast sowing situations.
What can ULTRASTRIKE® Brassica Seed Treatment
Do For You?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Protectyourinvestmentinseed
Increasebrassicaplantestablishment
Increasecropyields
Provideenhancedpestprotection
Reducechemicalhandling
Reducepesticidelevelsinsoil
Improveanimalproductionthroughhavingmorefeed
available for your stock
Plant Establishment
Figure 8. Number of Rape Plants/m2, Three Weeks After Sowing
(Amberley, North Canterbury), Under Springtail Pressure
70
61
60
Plants/m2
ULTRASTRIKE Brassica seed treatment includes:
®
The results of trials demonstrate that in comparison to untreated
seed, ULTRASTRIKE® Brassica provides improved plant
establishment and protection against insects in establishing
brassica crops (Figure 8).
50
40
40
30
20
10
0
ULTRASTRIKE®
A field trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of
ULTRASTRIKE® against Aphid attack. Field cages (0.4 m2)
were infested with 56 adult Aphids on a 2 weekly basis, with
the Aphids populating the cages for 7 days, with Aphid survival
assessed at 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 weeks after sowing.
Figure 9. ULTRASTRIKE® Versus Untreated
Seed Under Aphid Pressure
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
138
ULTRASTRIKE treated swedes at Mt Hutt Station, Mid Canterbury,
established under Aphid and Springtail pressure.
18
www.agricom.co.nz
115
112
101
96
115
69
2.2
3
1.5
15.3
5
7
9
Weeks Post Sowing
ULTRASTRIKE®
®
Untreated Seed
Aphid Protection
Aphid numbers/0.4m2
ULTRASTRIKE® Brassica seed treatment is a broadspectrum treatment that combines highly advanced protective
additives which have been specifically formulated to enhance
the establishment and performance of your brassica crop.
ULTRASTRIKE® with its additional insect protection, in conjunction
with fungicide protection, provides the most comprehensive level
of pest protection in the brassica seed treatment market.
11
Untreated Seed
ULTRASTRIKE® treated seed provided significantly improved
protection against adult Aphids in comparison to untreated
seed at 3, 5, 7 and 9 weeks after sowing, with no statistical
difference in Aphid survival at 11 weeks. (Figure 9)
Brassica Seed Treatment
Trial Results
SUPERSTRIKE® is a broad-spectrum brassica seed treatment
which combines highly-advanced protective additives which
have been specifically formulated to enhance the establishment
and performance of your brassica crop.
Figure 10. Comparison of Plant Establishment (kale)
SUPERSTRIKE® Versus Untreated Seed
SUPERSTRIKE Brassica Seed Treatment Includes:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Protectyourinvestmentinseed
Increasebrassicaplantestablishment
Increasecropyields
Reducechemicalhandling
Reducepesticidelevelsinsoil
Improveanimalproductionthroughhavingmorefeed
available for your stock
Establishment of Brassica Seed:
SUPERSTRIKE® Brassica seed treatment is a proven performer.
The photo below and trial results illustrate the benefits offered
by SUPERSTRIKE®.
Establishment of Brassica Seed Under Springtail Pressure
65
58
8 Days
21 Days
Number of Days After Planting
SUPERSTRIKE®
Untreated Seed
Kale plants per metre square 8 and 21 days after sowing at Gore, Southland,
treated with SUPERSTRIKE® versus untreated seed (Dec 1998).
Figure 11. Comparison of Drymatter (kale)
SUPERSTRIKE® Versus Untreated Seed
DM Yield (t/ha)
What Can SUPERSTRIKE® Brassica Seed Treatment
Do For You?
92
86
Section 2
Brassicas
1. A systemic insecticide to control springtail for at least 6
weeks after sowing. Springtail is the pest most frequently
responsible for brassica crop failures destroying unprotected
seedlings at emergence.
2. Two contact fungicides effective against the ‘damping off’
diseases Pythium, Fusarium and Rhizoctonia Solani (wirestem).
3. Molybdenum, an essential trace element for general brassica
growth and to reduce the risk of ‘whiptail’ which causes a
reduction in leaf size and irregularities in leaf formation.
4. Bird repellent, which is important for broadcast sowing situations.
Plants/m2
®
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
14.7
10.1
Seed Treatment
SUPERSTRIKE®
Untreated Seed
Drymatter production (t/ha) 207 days after sowing at Gore, Southland, from
kale treated with SUPERSTRIKE® versus untreated seed (June 1999).
UntreatedBrassica
SUPERSTRIKE®TreatedBrassica
www.agricom.co.nz
19
Grazing Management and Animal Welfare
Best-Practice Brassica Grazing
The successful grazing of livestock on brassicas requires
farmers to be aware of a number of factors that may impact on
the productivity and health of animals.
Feed Quality Comparisons
Section 2
Brassicas
The quality parameters of a feed influences stock performance.
Adequate energy, protein and mineral supplies are especially
important for high producing stock. A general guide to crude
protein (CP) requirements for ruminant livestock is (as percentage
of DM): 10-14% CP – minimum required for adequate growth,
15-18% CP – minimum required for adequate lactation.
Table 7. Appropriate Nutritive Values for a Range of Feeds
Feed Type
Drymatter Content
(%)
Metabolisable Energy
(MJME/kg DM)
Crude Protein
(% DM)
Swedes
- Top
- Bulb
15
10
12.5-13.0
12.5-13.0
15
12
Kale
15
11.5-12.5
15-20
Turnips
- Top
- Bulb
13
9
13.0-13.5
12.5-13.0
19
13
Rape
17
12.0
16
Ryegrass/White Clover
winter leafy
14
11.2
26
winter-autumn saved
17
10
20
summer-dry
28
8.0
10
16-20
8-10
15-20
Ryegrass
Adapted from Drew and Fennessy, 1980 and the Lincoln University Farm Technical Manual.
Crop Utilisation
Break feeding (strip grazing) is the best practice for manipulating
utilisation rates, diet quality, crop life, and crop regrowth
potential. Generally, as crop utilisation increases, animal intake
per head decreases (see pages 7 and 9).
Crop Access
Ruminant livestock take some time to attain maximum
voluntary intake when changed from a pasture to a brassica
20
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diet, and this may vary with cultivar and stock type. The rumen
bacterial population needs to adjust from a normal grass diet
to a brassica diet, and this may take several weeks. To limit the
effects of this diet change, the following guidelines should be
practiced;
• Introduceanimalsslowlytoacrop,fromaninitial2-3hours
to full allocation by 7-10 days. This allows rumen microbes
to adjust and may reduce the “grazing check” effect.
• Donotintroducehungryanimalstothecrop.Gorgingmay
occasionally lead to bloat or nitrate poisoning problems.
• Offeranalternativesourceorfeed,pasture,hayorsilage,
during introductory stage and throughout grazing of crop.
• Stockperformancewillbeimprovediftransitionsfromgrass
to brassica and back to grass are minimised as much as
possible, e.g. use appropriate stocking rates so animals
stay on brassicas for the desired time.
Why is Fibre Important?
Brassica crops typically are highly digestible, have high ME
and protein content but are often low in fibre. Fibre (NDF and
ADF) is required for efficient rumen function.
Fibre:
• HelpsmaintainrumenpHbyencouragingsalivaproduction
through chewing.
• Maydiluteanypossibleanti-nutritionalplantchemicalsand
therefore reduce their effect on livestock.
• Extends the number of grazing days on the crop, as it
supplements animal intake.
• Mustbepalatablesostockcanconsumeit.
• May be detrimental to animal performance if there is
excessive use of low quality fibre.
Section 2
Brassicas
Note: Ensure stock have ready access to a good supply of drinking water.
Quick Guide to Hunter Grazing Management
Residuals too low – eating too
much of crop
Residuals to maximise
liveweight gain/ha
Residuals too high – not eating
enough of crop
• Highstockingrates
(approximately100lambs/ha)
but animals growing slowly
(70g/day)
• Optimalstockingrates
and animals growing fast
(300g/day)
• Lowstockingrates
and animals growing fast
(300g/day)
• LowLWG/ha–
1.7kgLWG/ha/day
• MaximumLWG/ha–
12.4kgLWG/ha/day
• ModerateLWG/ha–
7.2kgLWG/ha/day
• Eating80%offorageonoffer
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21
Animal Health Considerations
Section 2
Brassicas
Rape Scald
Rape scald is a reaction by livestock to photodynamic plant
chemicals in brassicas. Symptoms include reddening and swelling
of the skin, commonly on the ears and face and possibly udders
of sheep and cattle. Affected livestock generally attempt to seek
shade, rub affected areas, and may appear generally distressed.
This condition is most commonly seen in lambs grazing immature
or second growth rape or hybrid brassicas. The risk of rape
scald can be minimised by delaying first grazing until crops have
ripened (purplish/blue tinge on leaf margin), avoiding excessive
nitrogen and sulphur fertilisers, and being vigilant to early signs.
Animals with scald should be removed from crop and offered
shade. Some cultivars have minimal ripening requirements and
are suited to situations when feed is required quickly and/or
where ripening may be delayed by climatic conditions. However,
under certain environmental conditions photosensitivity has been
known to occur beyond the normal period of ripening.
Photosensitivity From Turnips
Photosensitivity is also possible with dairy cows grazing summer
turnips and with other stock classes on summer turnips and
regrowth turnips.
The cause of this condition is not well understood; for dairy
cows the risk factors include: consuming large volumes of
turnips (greater than 30% of diet) and feeding on crops under
environmental stress. Animals with scald should be removed from
crop and offered shade.
Nitrates can build up in any situation where environmental
conditions promote plant growth but limit photosynthetic
activity. These include sudden temperature changes, dry
periods followed by rain, frost, shading, overcast days,
insect damage, some herbicides, some nutrient deficient
soils, excessive nitrogen fertiliser use, soils with deficiencies
in sulphur, phosphorus, molybdenum, or high acidity levels.
Nitrate toxicity can occur on a range of grasses, brassicas and
weeds. Young plants and plant material close to the ground are
more likely to have high nitrate levels.
Awareness and management of nitrate problems
• Recognise environmental conditions that cause nitrate
build up.
• Getsuspectcropsanalysedbeforegrazing.
• Introducestockgraduallytoallowrumen-adjustment.
• Donotputhungryanimalsontosuspectcrops.
• Avoidoverstockingofsuspectcropsashighgrazingpressure
will increase the amount of high-nitrate plant-parts eaten.
• Whenstripgrazing,watchutilisationlevelsorgrazeforshort
periods.
• Dilutehighnitratefeedwithalownitratefeedsource,e.g.
hay, pasture, silage.
In lambs grazing summer turnips (including Hunter) this condition
is rare and unpredictable but may be associated with adverse and
overcast weather conditions.
• Makehighnitrateforagesintosilage.Fermentationgenerally
reduces nitrate levels.
This may be of particular concern to stud stock owners, where
photosensitivity may cause cosmetic issues to sale animals.
• Manage nitrogen applications carefully to match plant
requirements, and therefore avoid excess uptake and nitrate
build-up.
Nitrates
When protein manufacture cannot keep up with nitrogen uptake
in plants, the excess accumulates as nitrates, which are then
converted to nitrites in the rumen and when consumed
can cause toxicity problems to grazing animals. This may
occur in most pasture species when nitrate levels (as KNO3)
reach 5% of the drymatter. When animals ingest high
levels of nitrates, nitrites build up in the bloodstream. Here they
bind with the oxygen-carrying compound, haemoglobin, to form
a compound that no longer is able to carry oxygen. Simply, the
animal suffers oxygen deprivation.
22
The most common symptom of nitrate toxicity is sudden death
but prior to death excessive salivation, rapid gasping breath,
rapid pulse (>150 beats/min), pale blue or brown colouration
of membranes, tremors, and muscle weakness may occur.
Pregnant animals surviving may abort.
www.agricom.co.nz
• Donotallowanimalsaccesstonitrogenfertilisers,fertiliser
storage areas, fertiliser spills, or grazing on recently fertilised
paddocks.
• Takecarewhenusingnitrogenfertiliseraroundwaterways,
to avoid nitrate build up in drinking water.
• Ensurethatsoilnutrientlevelsareintheoptimumrangefor
your farming system, as some nutrient deficiencies lead to
nitrate build up.
• Healthyanimalsarelesslikelytobeaffectedthananimalsin
poor health.
• Rememberthatnitratelevelsinanimalsareacombinationof
the nitrate consumed in their feed and their drinking water.
Treatment of Nitrate Toxicity
• Removestocktolow-riskpasture.
• Seekemergencyveterinaryassistance.
SMCOs, Kale Anaemia, Red Water
As the name suggests this disorder is most commonly found
when animals graze kale.
Goitre
Trace Elements
However, it can occur in all brassicas. It is most likely to occur
in brassicas that have bolted or are flowering in spring. It may
also become a problem if crops are grown in soils high in
sulphur, or after sulphur fertilisers have been used.
Brassicas contain a non-protein amino acid called S-methyl
cysteine sulphoxide (SMCO). During rumination SMCO is
converted into a compound that can potentially damage the
red blood cell membrane, allowing leakage of haemoglobin
from the cell and ending up in the urine (hence the term red
water).
There is some evidence that animals grazing solely brassica
crops do not receive sufficient trace elements and begin to
deplete their liver stores. A trace element supplementation
programme should be considered if animals are offered a sole
diet of brassica for an extended period, or animals have a
low trace element status prior to crop introduction. This may
require soil, herbage and blood analysis and consultation with
your veterinarian to establish current trace element status and
the appropriate supplementation programme.
Section 2
Brassicas
In some situations iodine (l) deficiency can occur when livestock
are fed on brassica crops. This is because brassicas are naturally
low in I and contain plant chemicals (glucosinolates) which are
goitrogenic and inhibit I uptake. Iodine is important for growth
and cell differentiation of tissues through its inclusion in thyroid
hormones. Consequently, I deficiency has its greatest effect
on the developing foetus and therefore may play an important
role where pregnant livestock graze brassicas for extended
periods in the final stages of pregnancy. The most marked
sign of I deficiency is enlarged thyroid glands (goitre), but weak
new-born lambs, low birth weights and a high rate of perinatal
mortality, may be subclinical signs along with poor wool growth
and lower fertility in older stock. Be aware of the I status of
pregnant livestock grazing a brassica crop and consider an I
supplement.
Mixing herbs with brassica crops is a strategy that may
assist with increasing trace element availability to stock
(refer pages 24-27).
Moderate levels of SMCO may cause loss of appetite, ill thrift,
mild anaemia and digestive upsets. High levels can cause
severe anaemia and red-coloured urine (red water). After an
attack of poisoning, death can occur suddenly.
Follow best practice guidelines for feeding brassica crops, e.g.
slow introduction, access to an alternative feed source etc. Do
not graze crops that have started flowering, be vigilant if you
suspect there may be a problem. Soil testing prior to sowing
will indicate the levels of key nutrients, including sulphur, and
assist in applying the right fertiliser for good crop growth.
Ideally, limit the applications of sulphur and nitrogen.
If kale anaemia is suspected, remove animals from the crop
and keep under close watch until health is regained.
www.agricom.co.nz
23
Choice chicory is a perennial herb with a deep tap root, high
forage quality, and high warm-season pasture growth. It
has been thoroughly proven on farms, and in research, to
substantially improve production both per animal and per
hectare in sheep, deer and dairy cows.
Figure 14. Persistence of Chicory Cultivars Measured in 2003
After 2001 Planting - Plants/m2 three years after planting,
Kimihia Research Centre, Canterbury.
20
15
Plants/m2
Choice was bred in New Zealand by AgResearch Grasslands,
the breeders of the original forage chicory, Grasslands Puna.
Choice was bred from true perennial chicory parents under
grazing evaluations and selected for high drymatter production,
improved cool season growth and recovery after grazing. Choice
has performed very well in trials exhibiting good growth and
has more production and persistence (Figure 14) than other
winter-active chicory cultivars.
10
5
0
Choice
Grouse
Chico
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
Performance of Choice chicory
Choice chicory is often used as a special-purpose lamb-finishing
crop. Lambs can grow on average 68% faster than on perennial
ryegrass, and higher numbers can be carried. Deer can grow
on average 41% faster compared with ryegrass/white clover
pastures and are likely to produce more spiker velvet. A trial
has shown that dairy cows produced 90% more milk when fed
on chicory relative to perennial ryegrass (Figure 15).
Figure 15. Summer milk production from cows grazing
four pasture types. Tharamaj et al. 2005.
25
19.2
Litres/cow/day
20
15
10
11.7
Perennial
ryegrass
Italian
ryegrass
On-farm experience of chicory as a perennial lamb-finishing
crop has shown liveweight gains of 220 to 400 grams/head/
day, so farmers should budget on a long-term average of
250. Carrying capacities have ranged from 40 to 70 lambs/ha
throughout summer, so a budget of 40 on dryland and 55 with
irrigation could be used.
13.3
5
0
24
10.1
www.agricom.co.nz
Advance
tall fescue
Faecal egg counts are reduced in lambs grazing chicory
compared with perennial ryegrass, and red deer have greater
resilience to internal parasites. Chicory also carries lower spore
levels for facial eczema and zearalenone. It has also been
shown to boost ovulation rates in ewes by up to 22%.
Chicory
Chicory can produce over 20,000 kg DM/ha in a year with
reasonable summer moisture, and daily growth rates around
80-100 kg DM/ha/day in summer/autumn.
Uses of Chicory
There are two main ways that Choice chicory is used;
1. Mixed with a grass/clover pasture – this is the most common use of
chicory because it requires very little change to pasture establishment and
management practices. It is an easy way to increase animal production from
a pasture. Seed is mixed at the rate of 1 to 4 kg/ha, depending on the
content required.
2. As a special-purpose crop – this is less common because it requires
different establishment and management practices to grass pastures. It is
however, a more effective way of increasing animal performance because it
provides a greater amount of high quality feed over summer. Seed is sown
at 4 to 6 kg/ha with white and red clover
Fitting to Farm Systems
Once well-established, an area
of chicory (about 0.3 ha per
100 cows) should be fenced
off, and cows moved onto
this break for 2-3 hours, with
a 25 day grazing rotation.
Farmer experience has found
per cow production can
increase by two litres/cow
or 10% per day from just a
couple of hours of grazing
chicory each day.
For sheep and deer farms,
specialist pure chicory/clover
pasture, fed as a sole diet,
is the most effective system
for lamb finishing, and the
growing of fawns and weaned
deer. A least six fenced areas
of Choice chicory should be
planted, so that animals can
be moved every 3-4 days to
achieve a 25 day rotation.
Perennial
Warm Season Growth
High
Growth Habit
Erect
1000 Seed Weight (grams)
1.2
Suggested Sowing Rate (kg/ha)
Pure sward 4-6
Mixed sward 1-2
Farmers have recorded higher dressing out
percentages in lambs finished on chicory
Choice chicory is palatable to cows, who will even eat
leaf knocked to ground, utilising about 90% of the
crop at each grazing
• Highforagequality
• Improvesanimalperformance
(sheep, deer, dairy)
• Highercarcaseyieldsinlamb
• Increasesovulationrateinewes
(upto22%)
• Highsummergrowth
• Perennialwithmoderatepersistence
(3-4years)
• Gooddroughttolerance,deeptaproot
(1.5 m)
• Elevatedmineralcontent
(Zn,Cu,Mg,Mn,P,Ca,K)
• Anthelminticaffectinsheepandreddeer
• Reducedfacialeczemasporelevels
www.agricom.co.nz
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
The best system for dairy farms is to establish several paddocks of pure
chicory/clover pasture close to the dairy shed. To ensure a daily 3-hour diet
of chicory, the amount of chicory pasture planted should be about 5-6 ha per
100 cows.
Perenniality
25
Tonic can add value in terms of both drymatter and quality to
any farming system. Tonic contributes invaluable drymatter
production, typically at times of the year when ryegrass and
other species, e.g. white clover, are not performing. Tonic has
a deep, coarse root system, which gives it a degree of drought
tolerance and the ability to respond quickly after summer-dry
conditions. Including Tonic in a pasture mix will also improve
summer pasture quality (Figure 16) due to Tonic’s high quality
leaf production, mineral content and its endophyte-free
status.
Table 8. Liveweight Gain of Lambs (per-head and per-hectare)
on Tonic Plantain and Perennial Ryegrass
(Moorhead et al. 2002)
Tonic plantain
Perennial ryegrass
Average LWG per
head (g/day)
Average LWG per
hectare (kg/ha/day)
222
135
6.1
5.2
A Tonic forage system is the use of pure stands of Tonic sown in
big enough areas to provide feed systems for specific classes
of stock utilising specific grazing management associated to
this broad leaved active herb.
These stands can be chemically managed for both broad leaf
weeds including thistle and grass weeds.
Both fertiliser and insect control can be tailored specifically for
your forage system.
Lamb Finishing Systems
A three year grazing trial was established aimed at determining
the impact of including Tonic plantain with perennial ryegrass
on production systems.
Figure 16. The Percentage of Lambs Achieving a Slaughter
Target Liveweight (G. Judson 2004)
80
Table 9. Liver Nutrient Analysis of Lambs Grazing Tonic Plantain
and Perennial Ryegrass for 80 days
(Moorhead et al. 2002)
Treatment
Tonic plantain
Perennial ryegrass
Significance
Liver
Copper
µmol/kg FW
Liver
Selenium
nmol/kg FW
Liver
B12
nmol/kg FW
2250
716
671
380
620
571
P<0.01
P<0.01
NS
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial Ryegrass + Tonic
70
Percentage of lambs
achieving target LW
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
Species
What is a Tonic Forage System?
60
50
40
30
Summer 02
Autumn 03
Spring 03
Summer 04
Trial Findings
Analysis of liver biopsies after 90 days on Tonic plantain found
a significantly higher level of copper and selenium in the lambs
grazing Tonic compared to lambs grazing ryegrass.
It must be noted that these results were achieved on pure
swards and may not represent a mixed pasture. Increases in
copper concentration have been measured from lambs grazing
pastures containing 20% Tonic, although increases were of
lower magnitude.
26
www.agricom.co.nz
White clover was chemically removed from all treatments to eliminate
confounding effects of variable clover content.
Lactation Case Study
Plantain has been evaluated as a forage for use during ewe lactation. Twinbearing ewes were set stocked on Tonic or perennial ryegrass pastures from
early-August to late-November.
Despite producing similar amounts of dry matter pre hectare, the Tonic plantain
treatments carried a lower stocking rate suggesting individual ewes and lambs
consumed more per head. Lamb growth rates were higher by 80g/day on Tonic
treatments resulting in a 7.2 kg difference in mean weaning weight. In addition,
ewes grazing Tonic plantain were heavier and in better body condition.
Pasture growth (kg DM/ha/day)
Perennial
Cool Season Growth
Very High
Growth Habit
Table 10. Lactation Case Study Results
Average pasture mass (kg DM/ha)
Perenniality
Perennial
Ryegrass
Tonic Plantain
1100
950
71
72
15.6
10.5
296
376
Weaning weight (kg)
33.9
41.1
Ewe liveweight (kg)
70.6
86.1
Ewe condition score (1 being poor, 5 being good)
2.6
3.3
2.0
1-2 with grass
2-3 in brassica mix
10 as a pure sward stand
Trial Findings
This case study indicates that Tonic plantain may provide significant benefits to
lamb production systems through increases in weaning weight and ewe body
condition at weaning, which has resulted from improved nutrition lactation.
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
Stocking rate (ewes/ha)
Lamb liveweight gain (g/day)
Erect
• Increaseddrymatterproduction
• Improvedsupplyofsometrace
elements to animals
• Extended‘shoulders’ofseasonal
production
• Positiveimpactonanimalperformance
• Extremelypalatabletostock
www.agricom.co.nz
27
Sensation red clover was selected as an upright growing
cultivar with good persistence under close grazing. It is an
early-flowering variety, giving better production in late-winter
and spring without losing the summer production advantage
that red clovers offer over white clovers.
Sensation has only moderate levels of formononetin (a plant
oestrogen), allowing it to be used in all pasture mixes to
enhance animal performance.
Colenso has a long-standing reputation as the ideal red clover
for inclusion in short-term and perennial pastures.
Colenso has good persistence in dry conditions, good summer
production, and the ability to provide quality feed earlier in
spring and later into autumn than many other red clovers.
Colenso also has medium-low formononetin levels.
Figure 17. Red Clover Grazing Trial 1990-1994,
Palmerston North – Total Herbage Production (kg DM/ha),
(Claydon et al. 2003)
Relative production
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
125
124
104
100
80
75
50
25
Sensation
G27
Pawera
Red Clover for Finishing Lambs
Red clover is a pasture species traditionally used as a component
of a pasture mix to improve summer pasture production and
quality. Once established red clover sown as a pure stand has
the potential to do a similar job to a leaf turnip summer brassica
but persist for 2 years, providing improve soil nitrogen and the
option of conserving as hay or silage if required.
Groups of lambs (n=10-55) were rotationally grazed on a mix
of Colenso and Sensation red clover, perennial ryegrass /white
clover pasture or leaf turnip. Grazing commenced in early
December and concluded in February.
28
Table 11. Pure Stand Red Clover Case Study Results
Leaf Turnip
Red Clover
Ryegrass/
White Clover
Pre-grazing mass (kg
DM/ha)
3000
5850
2250
SR (lambs/ha)
45.9
75.5
29.8
LWG (g/day)
224
197
117
LWG (kg/ha/day)
10.3
14.9
3.5
Some of the higher pre-grazing mass in red clover treatments (Table 11) was
a result of forage accumulated from the start of spring. The average pasture
mass of pasture and leaf turnip treatments only included forage accumulated
from around mid-October onward. However, in the second and third rotations
the mass on offer in the red clover treatment was still approximately double
that of the leaf turnip treatment suggesting forage growth rate was the most
important factor in the higher average pre-grazing mass.
Perenniality
Perennial
Cool Season Growth
The faster forage growth and higher pre-grazing mass of red clover translated
into a higher stock carrying capacity compared to the leaf turnip pasture. This
evaluation suggested that in the appropriate environment well established red
clover could be superior to leaf turnip in the number of lambs that could be
finished per-hectare.
Low-medium
Liveweight gain was probably high for lambs grazing the leaf turnip and the red
clover treatments with growth rates on pasture about half that of leaf turnip.
Leaf turnip crops are still important in a renovation program where longer crop
rotations are less appropriate or where quick feed is required from a spring sowing.
Medium
2.5
Ploidy
Diploid
4-6 in a brassica mix
8 as a pure stand
Section 3
Herbs and Legumes
Based on this pilot study it appears red clover could be capable from a
stocking rate and lamb growth perspective of substituting for a leaf turnip
summer brassica. Red clovers ability to be conserved as hay or silage and
the improvement in soil nitrogen are additional benefits that may be reported
in the future.
Leaf Size
Sensation
• Bredforpersistenceunder
close grazing
• Uprightgrowing,high-yieldingcultivar
• Strongearly-seasongrowth
• Reducedlevelsofformononetin
(oestrogen)
Colenso
• Improvedseasonaldistributionofgrowth
• Persistsundergrazing
• Performsindryconditions
• Reducedlevelsofformononetin
(oestrogen)
www.agricom.co.nz
29
Management of Cereals for Silage
Why Cereal Silage?
Which Species?
Cereals are grown for silage because of their high forage
production within short periods. This allows farmers to produce
silage at an economic cost, which is ideal for complimenting
high quality pasture or brassica crops, or supplementing when
pasture growth is low.
Crackerjack triticale is the preferred
crop for WCCS when it can be
planted in winter or early-spring,
because it has higher yield potential
then other species.
Salute barley has a shorter growing
period, so is suited when crops are
planted later in spring (Sept-Oct),
and where soils are expected to be
very dry in early-summer.
Milton oats are ideal for planting
after winter greenfeed crops (e.g.
kale), harvested as GCCS, before
planting with another crop in
November (e.g. kale).
Crop Management
Section 4
Cereals
Time of sowing is crucial for yield. Crops planted too late rush
through their growth stages and have less time to accumulate
yield. Plant crops as early as possible, Crackerjack triticale can
be planted as early as mid-winter, and Salute barley in earlySeptember.
Whole-Crop or Green-Chop?
Whole-crop cereal silage (WCCS) is harvested when grain has
reached full size and weight, producing a forage high in starch
and carbohydrate, and with beneficial fibre levels. Green-chop
cereal silage (GCCS) is harvested at an earlier stage (booting,
GS45) before seed heads are present, giving a silage of
similar value to high quality grass silage (balanced protein and
energy).
The choice between WCCS and GCCS depends on the feed
value of silage required (starch or protein) and how soon the
crop needs to be harvested.
30
www.agricom.co.nz
Paddock preparation can affect yield. Cultivated ground
should be moderately fine and even to achieve a consistent
drilling depth of 3-4cm. Broadcasting cereal seed is not
recommended.
Fertiliser has a critical influence on yield potential. All spring
cereals should be planted with a nitrogen-based fertiliser (e.g.
150-250 kg/ha DAP). Triticale crops normally have 66% of
their total nitrogen requirements applied at the end of tillering
(GS31), with further applied at flag leaf emergence (GS39) for
high yielding crops. Barley develops faster, so 60% is applied
at sowing and 40% at the end of tillering (GS31).
The total amount of nitrogen required depends on existing soil
nitrogen levels, and the target yield (e.g. irrigated or low rainfall).
Irrigated crops on heavily-cropped land can require 250 kg
N/ha to achieve 16 t DM/ha, but a dryland crop on fertile soil
may only need 80 kg N/ha for a 10t DM/ha yield.
Fertile soils will supply enough potassium, phosphate and
sulphur, but soil tests often show that potassium fertiliser is
required (at planting).
Weeds should be controlled before canopy-closure (GS2129) because they will reduce silage yield and can affect its
palatability. Many broadleaf herbicides are suitable.
Plant-growth regulators can improve silage quality by
increasing the ratio of grain to stem/leaf. These need to be
applied at an early stage (GS31), discuss this with your
agronomist.
Harvesting of WCCS is not difficult, but requires planning
and monitoring to ensure correct timing. The grain needs to
get bigger than the seed you planted, and will have changed
colour from light-green to yellow/light-brown (see photo
below). When you squeeze the grain between your finger nail
and finger, it should crease easily but no liquid or white ‘slop’
should ooze out of the grain. This is called the ‘cheesy dough’
stage, because the content of the grain resemble colby cheddar
cheese. The dry matter of the crop should then be 36-40%.
Silage should be chopped finely, consolidated, and inoculant is
recommended. If the crop is to be baled, cut the crop slightly
earlier (34-37%).
Fungicides can protect the yield and quality of silage. Low
rates are commonly applied with herbicides or plant-growth
regulators to prevent disease, because the costs are low. Full
rates are usually then applied at full flag leaf emergence (GS39)
to keep leaves green during grain-fill, and to comply with
with-holding periods. Triazole and strobilurin chemicals are
commonly mixed to achieve both ‘knock-down’ and residual
control.
Correct cheesy-dough stage
Barley – basic management recipe for Salute planted in spring for silage
Timing
Action
Details (examples)
Early-October
Spray out old pasture
Glyphosate @ 3-6l/ha + surfactant
October/November
Sow Salute barley and fertiliser
150 kg/ha seed + NPK fert providing
75-100 kg N/ha
Assess weeds and spray if required
e.g. MCPA at 3 l/ha
4-6 weeks post-sowing (GS31)
Tank mix fungicide with above herbicide
Product mix to provide curative plus
protectant properties
Final nitrogen application
50-75 kg N/ha
Section 4
Cereals
Triticale – basic management recipe for Crackerjack planted winter/spring for silage
Timing
Action
Details (examples)
July-September
Spray out old pasture or winter crop residue
Glyphosate @ 3-6l/ha + surfactant
Sow early in spring (July-September)
Drill seed and fertiliser
175-185 kg triticale, 250 kg DAP
Assess weed pressure. Consider first fungicide
3 l/ha MCPA. Tank mix fungicide with herbicide
Main nitrogen application.
Consider plant growth regulator
75-100 kg N/ha (depending on soil fertility)
Flag leaf/booting stage (GS39)
Fungicide application. Final nitrogen
Protectant + curative fungicide 50-70 kg N/ha
www.agricom.co.nz
31
Plant and Food
Product Usage
Intended Use
Whole crop cereal silage
Resistance to stripe rust
Excellent
Planting Time
Late-winter or until mid-spring
Sowing Rate (kg/ha)
180 kg
Based on a 52 g 1000 seed weight
Crackerjack is a high-yielding triticale for whole-crop
cereal silage production that can be planted in latewinter or spring. Trials have shown potential production
to be 18 t DM/ha for whole crop cereal silage, superior
to other crop species, such as wheat and barley.
Crackerjack is easy to grow because of its disease
tolerance, ability to stay standing till harvest and
wide harvest-window (compared with barley). When
harvested at the recommended stage (approx. 130
days from August sowings in Canterbury), silage has a
good energy level and is sought after by dairy farmers.
The variety DoubleTake is also used for silage production, but is generally
planted in autumn for winter-grazing and spring silage.
Trial Data
Figure 12. Yields of spring triticale cultivars,
multi-site mean of all NZ trials, 2004/05.
19
• Improvedresistancetostriperust
18
17
• Highenergyandcarbohydratelevels
16
Tonnes/DM/ha
• Highsilageyields
• Cool-seasongrowth
Section 4
Cereals
• Goodtolerancetolodging
15
14
13
12
11
10
Crackerjack
Rocket
Monster
Bullion
Sowing
Crackerjack can be sown from mid-winter to spring (July-September) in the North
Island and Canterbury, or late-winter to spring (August-October) in Southland.
The recommended sowing rate is 170-180 kg/ha to achieve 250-300 plants/
m2, but this will vary with seed size and sowing date (increase populations from
250-300 plants/m2 for later sowings). Weed and aphid management is similar
to cereals grown for grain.
32
www.agricom.co.nz
Product Usage
Salute is a medium-maturity spring barley. It has consistently achieved high grain
and silage yields over many trials. Silage quality is very good due to the high
grain content. Trials indicate that Salute is capable of producing 14-15 tonne
DM/ha silage crops in Canterbury with irrigation and good management.
Salute has excellent resistance to all diseases, except scald. Scald is a disease
spread by rain splash and is usually worst in wet springs or early-sowings.
Scald can be easily controlled with fungicide.
Trial Data
Salute has performed exceptionally well in a large number of Foundation for
Arable Research (FAR) and Plant and Food Research trials (Figure 13).
Intended Use
Whole crop cereal silage
Disease Resistance
Excellent
Planting Time
September-October
Figure 13. Plant and Food Research Spring Barley Cultivar Silage
Evaluation Trials, Canterbury, 2001-02 to 2003-04, four sites,
(Yield relative to trial mean=100).
Sowing Rate (kg/ha)
150-160
115
Yield relative mean=100
110
105
• Veryhighyields
100
• Highgraincontent
95
• Highqualitysilage
90
• Excellentdiseaseresistance
85
Salute
County
Section 4
Cereals
80
Dash
www.agricom.co.nz
33
Brassica User Guide
Section 5
Brassica User Guide
Cultivar
34
www.agricom.co.nz
Sowing Time
Sowing Rate
(kg/ha)
Time to First Grazing
Mid October to November
4
6-8 wks
February possible
4
8-10 wks
Mid October to early November
3-4 alone
2.5-3 with herbs & clovers
10-12 wks
February March
3-4 alone
1-2 with annual ryegrass
10-12 wks
Late November to late December
4
18-24 wks
Late January to mid February
4
14-18 wks
Late October
4
14-16 wks
Late November to
early December
0.5 in 60 cm ridges
1 in 20 cm rows
24-30 wks
Range 1.5-3
Varies depending
on quality of seed
bed preparation
12-14 wks
January to February
1-2
18-20 wks
Range 1.5-3
Varies depending on quality
of seed bed preparation
16 wks
Number of Grazings
Potential Yield (kg DM/ha)
Notes
December-March
3-4
10,000 - 12,000
April-August
2-3
10,000 - 12,000 depending on
number of grazings
Number of grazings is influenced by climatic
conditions and grazing management with faster
rotations allowing more grazings.
January-August
3-4
10,000 - 12,000
Late May to August
1-2
5,000 - 8,000
Number of grazings is most affected by
management and climatic conditions. The
addition of herbs, clovers or ryegrass will increase
the potential for other grazings once the Winfred
has died out or slowed in regrowth.
Most rapes are susceptible to Club Root and care
should be taken in summer moist environments.
Late May to September
1
Average = 12,000 - 14,000
Top =18,000
Late-flowering makes Sovereign a good choice
for late-winter grazing.
June-September
1
8,000 - 10,000
Sowing at this time greatly elevates crop
quality and potential utlisation rates right
through winter.
Lightly in February,
June-September
2
Accumulated = 14,000 - 15,000
The aim of this system is to graze lightly with
lambs throughout February then shut up for
winter feed.
Late May to September
1
Average = 12,000 - 14,000
Top = 18,000+
Main crop swede, should not be sown after
other brassicas.
January-March
1
Average = 8,000 - 12,000
Top = 14,000+
Care should be taken to make sure that
Rival makes up no more than 5 kg or 1/3
of a cow’s diet.
Late May to August
1
Average = 6,000 - 8,000
500 g/ha can be added to annual ryegrass
for winter feed however bulb development is
often reduced.
February-March
1
Average = 8,000 - 12,000
Top = 14,000+
New York is a good choice to be sown for the
last paddock of summer turnips to be grazed.
Care should be taken to make sure that
New York makes up no more than 5 kg or
1/3 of a cow’s diet.
www.agricom.co.nz
Section 5
Brassica User Guide
Period of Grazing
35
Contact details:
NORTH ISLAND
Garry Wills
Dereck Ferguson
Elton Mayo
Northern North Island Sales Manager Eastern North Island Sales Manager Western North Island Sales Manager
027 683 3380
027 431 5269
027 433 3039
SOUTH ISLAND
Sam Lucas
Gareth Kean Northern South Island Sales Manager
Southern South Island Sales Manager
027 229 5776
027 226 2777
This publication has been prepared in good faith by Agricom technical staff using sources that are believed to be reliable. However, Agricom does not give any warranty that
all information contained is accurate or that all advice given in this publication will be appropriate for all circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Agricom shall not be
liable to anyone in respect of any damages suffered as a result of their reliance on this publication.
© Agricom, 2009
www.agricom.co.nz | [email protected] | Freephone 0800 183 358

BRASSICA AND FORAGE CROPPING GUIDE

Transcription

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