Forage Rape

It is best to have a grass or stubble run back. Start feeding two weeks before the crop is fully mature so livestock are accustomed to forage rape when the crop is at full potential. Increase yields, protein, energy content and palatability by mixing stubble turnips and forage rape together. The better winter hardiness from the forage rape will help shield the stubble turnips from extreme frost, keeping them fresher for longer.

Interval is a forage rape/kale cross. This can increase the grazing period into January due to its winter hardiness. Interval has exceptional yield potential, combined with good disease resistance. It is quick to establish and is perfect for fattening lambs or flushing ewes. In our in-house trials, Interval was preferentially grazed over other varieties, which suggests it is more palatable.

Rampart is a new generation of forage rape that has been bred with feed quality enhancements. It has high yields and good winter hardiness and is suitable for dairy, beef and lamb production. It can be ready to feed 12-14 weeks after sowing.

Swift is a forage rape/kale cross, which gives it extra vigour and winter hardiness. It is ideal for sowing late and suitable for multi-grazing. It can be used for gamecover but is prone to bolt if sown too early (before May). Swift can re-grow after one graze, if it is put down in the summer.

Avon is a high-yielding forage rape ideally suited to finishing lambs as summer or autumn grazing. Feed from June to December ideal Autumn/winter brassica. High leaf-to-stem ratio and high stem digestibility. Excellent disease resistance including mildew.

Hobson is highly palatable and digestible, making it an ideal variety for finishing lambs. It has excellent resistance to powdery mildew, a disease which can make some crops unpalatable leading to a high wastage factor. Hobson is best utilised early September to December.

For a bespoke forage rape fertiliser programme, speak to your Wynnstay Specialist. Or call the Fertiliser Team on 01939 211266