Crops and Forage

Crops like Pallaton Raphnobrassica, lucerne, Relish red clover, Ecotain plantain-clovers, Sika chicory-clovers grazed in the summer show promise in a recent study for reducing worm challenge in lambs on farms which can help with drench resistance issues through less drenching, while also lifting lamb growth rates. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Imagine if a crop could be both productive and improve environmental outcomes in a cold and wet climate. Plant & Food Research have been working with several Canterbury catchment groups to ground the science to see if forage oats can reduce the risk of nitrate leaching losses even in the toughest conditions.Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Winter forage crops are a critical part of Robert Young’s Southland farming operation. Sandra Taylor showcases the plans he puts in place to protect animal welfare and soil and water resources while these crops are being grazed. Words Sandra Taylor.

By prioritising soil health, Mid-Canterbury arable farm managers Matt and Heidi Hart are making environmental as well as crop yield gains. Words Heather Chalmers.

New research from AgResearch and Lincoln University shows rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are altering phosphorus (P) available for plant growth, potentially leading to costly and unnecessary fertiliser application by farmers. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

A worrying increase in the prevalence of herbicide resistance as well as consumer pressure to reduce chemical use is resulting in mechanical weeders making a comeback as an alternative weed control in arable crops. Words Heather Chalmers.

Arable growers are taking action to capture more value from their crops, writes Heather Chalmers.

Arable farming in Rangitikei runs deep in the Nitschke family history. Tony Leggett investigates what is behind a phase of rapid expansion for the family’s grain business and what lies ahead. Photos Brad Hanson.

When it comes to autumn pasture renewal, a strong plan underpins successfully meeting your farm’s feed quantity and quality needs.

The right equipment combined with clever technology that gives you the ability to monitor and adapt in the paddock, as you harvest, is the golden ticket to perfecting silage making.