Oilseed rape (OSR) growers are being urged to apply a nitrogen-sulphur combination once conditions allow, to boost spring growth and strengthen defences against pests such as Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle (CSFB).
Will Oliver, Warwickshire arable farmer and BASIS qualified agronomist, explains that properly nourishing OSR crops at this crucial growth stage is key to unlocking their full potential.
“By getting a first dose of nitrogen and sulphur on the crop as soon as conditions allow, you ensure that the plant has the resources it needs to kickstart growth,” he explains.
“A well-nourished OSR plant has a much better chance of withstanding any stress caused by challenging spring conditions and will be much better able to grow away from pest damage.”
Growing OSR for the first time in five years himself, Mr Oliver has selected LG Avenger, a variety marketed as CSFB-resilient.
Drilled in early-mid August, he plans to get a first dose of nitrogen and sulphur on the crop as soon as the ground is travelableand highlights the importance of timing.
“The key is not to delay that first nutrition pass – you want to get it on before the crop starts to elongate too much,” he explains.
“If you wait for perfect conditions, you could miss the window. By then, the crop might already be stressed, and it will be much harder for it to recover if hit by poor weather or pressure from CSFB or other pests.”
To simplify nutrient management, Sam Leadbeater, UK and Ireland sales manager for OCI Global, recommends using a compound fertiliser that provides both nitrogen and sulphur in a balanced formulation.
“At this point in the growth cycle, sulphur supports healthy vegetative growth, helping the OSR plant establish a strong foundation for future yield potential,” he says.
“Sulphur is also crucial for protein synthesis and oil production in OSR crops, especially during the reproductive stages.
“It enhances nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), ensuring that nitrogen is utilised more effectively within your crop.”
He adds: “With 27% nitrogen (N) and 4% sulphur (S), OCI’s Dynamax is the ideal nitrogen-sulphur fertiliser for early spring OSR nutrition, ensuring a balanced supply of essential nutrients to support crop growth from early spring.”
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