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Catch crops, also commonly referred to as cover crops, are nothing new. Already used extensively in cropping, they are traditionally sown in autumn to provide feed over winter for stock, conserve nutrients and reduce weeds, water runoff and soil erosion.

The autumn period has again produced a consistent spell of warmer weather and with a steady stream of regular rainfall, we are set up heading into winter. Soil temperature has remained consistent, although the cold spell currently should slow pasture growth. Feed surpluses have been good in the latter part of autumn and the drier conditions earlier had meant irrigation remained on through mid-autumn.

For the next 3 months, we will look at the following: autumn sown arable crops, barley grass control in pasture and weed control in lucerne.

Is magnesium (Mg) important for winter wheat yields and quality, and what’s the best course of action if a deficiency occurs?

Between them, Ruralco Arable & Pastoral Representatives Ricky Brown and Steve Lawson are looking forward to delivering a personable and knowledgeable start to the new season.

Placing catchment communities in the Ashburton District at the centre of decisions and direction on biodiversity, water quality and the environment is now possible thanks to the Mid Canterbury Catchment Collective (MCCC).

For the next three months we will look at the following: fodder crops, pre-emergence sprays on autumn sown crops, grass grub control in pasture, and use of gibberellic acid to increase pasture growth.

Look back and plan ahead to get the most from your autumn sown cereal crop.

Autumn is on its way following a favourable summer, especially for cropping farmers who have been able to complete much of their harvest with limited weather delays. There have been some extreme temperatures with some regular rainfall, particularly in late February, seen in time to provide relief for dryland farmers.

Replacing the nutrients removed by hay or silage keeps soil fertile and productive.