Maximising Oilseed Rape Growth Before Winter
In our previous oilseed rape blog, we focused on establishment to get the crop off to the best possible start. Now our focus turns to maximising crop growth before winter arrives.
Supporting Crops at Every Stage of Establishment
Currently there are many different crops out there. Those that are growing away nicely, those that are struggling with pest attack, and those that are only just being drilled. A reminder for those yet to drill, the crop needs to reach the 4 true leaf stage quickly, this helps it outgrow adult flea beetle feeding and slug damage. Seedbed fertiliser is vital.
Why Strong Root Systems Matter
Crops with a deep tap root combined with a thick stem collar have been proven to overcome flea beetle larvae attacks, compared to those with small root systems and thin stems. Having a large fibrous root system increases the crops ability to utilise soil applied nutrition, thus enhancing nutrient use efficiency. Likewise, during drought periods this enhances the crops ability to scavenge for water within the soil.
Targeted Nutrition for Oilseed Rape from the 4 True Leaf Stage
Once the crop reaches the 4 true leaf stage, growth can be enhanced with targeted foliar nutrition. Numerous scientific studies have proven phosphite biostimulants stimulate root and shoot growth, this has been backed up by many years of field experience.
Fortiflo foliar nutrition
Kickstart
OMEX Kickstart is a specially formulated phosphite solution that improves above and below ground growth. Kickstart contains nitrogen to improve uptake and gives the crop an instant boost. The final nutrient component is potassium, which given it has antifreeze properties leads to improved winter hardiness.
Proven Results from OMEX Kickstart
Replicated trials conducted in Lincolnshire showed the benefit of a foliar application of Kickstart. On average root growth was improved by 13% and shoot growth by 12%. All Kickstart treatments had a higher green area index at the start of spring.
DISCOVER KICKSTART
Managing Manganese Deficiency Risk
At this early stage of growth manganese is also a key consideration especially on risk prone sites. These include light sandy soils, organic soils, and alkaline soils. Manganese plays an important role in chlorophyll synthesis supporting a healthy canopy. Therefore, should be routinely applied where the risk is high.
NEED ADVICE?
SuperMn
SuperMn contains manganese in both the nitrate and sulphate form, this delivers a rapid correction of deficiency alongside sustained crop feeding. The addition of magnesium aids nutrient uptake, supports canopy health and winter hardiness. SuperMn can be tank mixed with Kickstart to solve both issues in one pass and is a very cost-effective solution.
The key message is to keep crop growth moving forwards, ensuring you have the best crop possible going into winter. An application of Kickstart at the 4 true leaf stage will stimulate root and shoot growth for a relatively small investment. Remember a bigger crop coming out of winter will likely require less nitrogen in spring.
