Utilising SF 1505Bv fodder beet as a regulatory tool

Going forward we face unprecedented change and pressure on our industry which will affect how our farm systems are managed, with land use and nitrogen outputs being key focus areas.

One of beet’s many benefits is that it’s a flexible low N option which works in a regulated industry. The Forages for Reduced Nitrate Leaching (FRNL) project, as well as further AgResearch and Dairy NZ projects have highlighted beet as an opportunity to minimise N outputs, with half as much N loss when compared to high N crops such as kale. Beets have higher watersoluble carbohydrates to N ratio than standard pasture (which when fed reduces the total N excreted in urine). A great beet option that has been proven in a range of systems is SF 1505Bv from Seed Force. It’s a genetic monogerm beet which offers a medium – high dry matter percentage and subsequently very high yields. With a relatively high proportion of bulb above ground and uniform bulbs, SF 1505Bv really suits intensive grazing systems, especially dairy. SF 1505Bv also offers the added bonus of being easily self harvestable by the likes of beet buckets. When harvested pre-winter SF 1505Bv can be practically followed by a catch crop such as cereals to further capture any available nutrients. This versatility helps ensure it’s a high-quality option from autumn through to spring. Another key benefit of SF 1505Bv is its high leaf retention and quality. With close to a quarter of its yield being provided by the leaf, it is an important contributor of protein to the total diet. Being a low nitrogen input crop helps ensure beet’s advantages can be utilised with lower nitrate loss from both late lactation and dry stock feed timings when compared to other species. When planning your SF 1505Bv crop this season Seed Force offers some tips to help ensure optimum results: • Select paddocks that will be suitable for beet with known history, optimum nutrient availability and that can be prepared to an acceptable standard. • Up to two thirds of the total crop yield will be determined by the activities carried out before seedling emergence so take control of any variables you can influence. • Ensure there are no sub soil restrictions that could obstruct plant root development. • An adequate fallow period allows moisture build up and an early weed strike. • Ensure key nutrients are not limiting for optimum plant emergence and subsequent growth. • A fine, firm and moist seedbed is essential for optimum plant emergence. Do not over cultivate or compact the seedbed. • Use a precision planter and ensure speed is slow for optimum placement. Plant when

conditions allow, and environmental risks considered and are minimised. • Plant the required sowing rate for the optimum established field emergence to suit the beet type, line germination and the end use of the crop. • Apply post plant/pre-emergence herbicide and insecticide to ensure minimal weed competition and insect damage during beet germination. • Correct input application timing is crucial to help ensure weed and pest control and ensure crop growth is optimum. • The aim of post planting fertiliser is to minimise bare ground exposure (open rows) and ensure speed to canopy closure. • A rapidly growing canopy with good ground cover can exploit sunshine hours to help drive yield. • Maximise crop green leaf retention by use of registered fungicides. Appropriate timing is crucial for their success and adhere to any grazing withholding periods. When grown optimally beet offers high yields and is a low-cost high-energy feed with animal performance advantages. For more information on SF 1505Bv, contact your local Ruralco Representative.