We know that growing oilseed rape can be challenging so we have gathered together everything you need to know about oilseed rape here. From establishment to harvest we can provide insight about crop management and protection to help maximise yields.
Posted 5 months ago
September
Despite the summer drought conditions, the rain towards the end of August came at just the right time. Most of the country’s oilseed rape was drilled by the beginning of September, with only a few late-drilled exceptions remaining.
In September, pay careful attention to how the crop is establishing and any factors such as pests and weeds that may be impacting growth. If growing multiple varieties on-farm, compare progression in the early stages, above and below ground, as this could help inform next season’s variety decision-making.
Priorities this month (location dependent):
August
With most of the oilseed rape harvest completed, attention turns to the 2018/19 season. Variety decisions will need to be finalised, remembering that a vigorous and resilient hybrid variety may be necessary for establishment, given the extremely dry summer conditions.
Careful consideration towards cultivations will also be vital. For example, minimum tillage will reduce the likelihood of weeds and cereal volunteers. Rolling after drilling will be critical to ensure good soil to seed contact too.
Priorities this month (location dependent):
October
As the colder days draw closer, so does the risk of disease and pest infections for the country’s oilseed rape crop. October is prime time to be vigilant for Cabbage Stem Flea Beetles (CSFB), which can impact plant establishment significantly, particularly if the growing point is damaged.
If CSFBs are found, chemical control options are essential to ensure sufficient establishment ahead of Winter. Throughout October also monitor for Phoma and Light Leaf Spot symptoms, ready to consider fungicide options next month.
Priorities this month (location dependent):
November
With the winter months looming and leaf production in full swing, OSR crops enter the danger zone for Phoma and Light Leaf Spot (LLS) infection. Remember that LLS can still be present in the crop even if there aren’t any visible symptoms.
If you’re struggling to identify LLS or Phoma symptoms, you can have leaves assessed by the Bayer SpotCheck initiative.
In most cases the worst of the Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle (CSFB) and aphid pressure has passed, and now is a good time to assess damage and change pest control programmes accordingly.
Priorities this month (location dependent):
December
As we begin to enter into the coldest months of the year, crops will be in the midst of leaf production, in preparation for an intense growth period in spring 2019.
The onset of the cold weather will now keep aphids and flea beetle pressure at bay, which otherwise have the potential to hinder establishment significantly.
However, crops are not danger free as they continue to grow through the high-risk period for various weeds and diseases. To ensure your crop steers clear of weed damage, crops should be walked to assess potential harm in order to change weed control programmes effectively. If you’re unsure of the prevalence of light leaf spot or Phoma symptoms, you can have leaves assessed by the Bayer SpotCheck initiative to ensure early detection and informed decision-making.
Priorities this month (location dependent):
Find out more information on the key disease threats to your oilseed rape crop. For each disease you will find out the importance of the disease in terms of potential yield penalty, how to identify the disease in its early stages and our advice on the best control strategies.
