Expert tips for bumper OSR yields

Mark Tucker, Yara’s head of agronomy and Liam Wilkinson, Limagrain’s technical seed specialist, says that while oilseed rape (OSR) was once a crop-rotation staple, it fell from favour when pest control became progressively trickier. Now though, with global events affecting cooking oil supply, many growers are returning to OSR and seeing impressive profits.

“But old routines won’t necessarily serve growers,” Mark stresses. “Now is the time for farmers to rethink the crop — what’s been successful, and what they might do differently.”

Variety

“It used to be 50/50 hybrids and original varieties,” says Liam, “but now, hybrids are favoured by growers who never stopped growing OSR, as well as those who have returned.”

Reliability is boosted by opting for resistance against Phoma, TuYV and pod shatter. Liam reflects on the importance of this: “I think pod shatter is the ultimate in yield security, so your production doesn’t fall at the last hurdle.”

Yet seed breeders are still unable to tackle a particularly problematic pest: “Cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) is a pest we all have to live with,” Liam observes, “but choosing a vigorous variety is key. You get thick-stemmed, tall crops more quickly, which helps guard against CSFB losses.”

Nutrition

Mark warns against cutting corners on fertiliser, even in the face of eyewatering prices: “There is tremendous value in this crop, there is lots at stake, so plan for success, be proactive about nutrition.” Mark adds, “A NPKS product should be applied at drilling – placing ensures the nutrient is right next to that establishing root and saves on how much you have to use, but broadcasting is absolutely fine too.”

Boron is another cornerstone nutrient for OSR, as it thwarts spring pests by bringing on rapid growth as the winter eases. “80% of UK soils have a level of boron deficiency, and soil tests can help tell you where you are,” advises Mark.

Drilling – how and when

Soil moisture is a crucial factor for drilling OSR – particularly this year. Liam is keen to make sure growers are patient: “There is no real urgency to drill early anymore. Some of the best crops I’ve seen have been drilled into September. The drilling window is extended by the vigour in the new varieties.”

It is also worth paying attention to seed rate, Liam explains: “Lower plant populations are more resilient against larvae. Thinner sowings result in thicker stems and a deeper pod set.”