Farmers planting forage rape to support grazing following the summer drought should introduce the crop gradually to livestock diets.
Livestock should initially receive access for one to two hours daily, building up over seven to 10 days, sys the Agricultura and Horticulture Development Board. Farmers should also provide additional fibre, clean water and appropriate minerals.
Seed suppliers say fast-growing rape varieties can be ready for use within 10-12 weeks after planting – offering a short-term forage bridge while a new ley establishes on farm. But field purpose should be considered alongside seed price.
Jim Juby, of Horizon Seed, says growers should use mixtures containing Recommended List varieties suited to UK conditions. They should also assess immediate autumn demand alongside the field’s longer-term role for production. Unless growers have already done so this autumn, any clover to be included should now be overseeded next spring. Sowing after first cut or the first grazing round will enable spring control of broadleaved weeds before the clover establishes.
Forage rape may be included in a grass reseed at 1.25kg/ha, or 0.5kg/acre.