As we move into the early autumn months, a clear divide has emerged in the establishment of oilseed rape (OSR) crops across the country. This season has underlined just how influential drilling date and soil moisture availability can be in determining early crop performance.
Early Drilled Crops Off to a Strong Start
Crops sown during the last week of July and the first days of August have generally enjoyed favourable conditions. These early plantings benefited from residual moisture in the soil, which supported even germination and vigorous early growth. Many of these crops are now well ahead, with plants at four true leaves or more. At this stage, they are better positioned to withstand pest pressure and the increasing risk of weather extremes as autumn progresses.
Later Drilled Crops Struggling to Get Going
By contrast, OSR drilled from mid-August onwards has faced a tougher start. Dry conditions have delayed germination in many areas, leaving some fields still waiting for significant rainfall to trigger emergence. While the delay is frustrating, well-prepared seedbeds and good seed-to-soil contact can still deliver successful establishment once rain arrives.
However, later-drilled crops will need close monitoring. Their smaller size going into winter makes them more vulnerable to pest damage and challenging weather. Many growers have opted for vigorous varieties like *Cognac* and *Duplo*, known for their rapid establishment—an important choice when dealing with compromised conditions.
Flea Beetle Pressure Lower—But Vigilance Still Needed
Encouragingly, flea beetle numbers appear to be lower than expected so far this season. Reports of severe damage or complete crop losses have been limited. Nonetheless, regular monitoring remains crucial, particularly through the use of water traps, to catch any localised flare-ups and act swiftly if thresholds are breached.[DDA1]
Practical Tips for Supporting Crop Establishment
Use a Placement Fertiliser: Applying phosphate and a small amount of nitrogen directly with the seed at drilling has proven highly effective in promoting strong root development. Both liquid and microgranular fertiliser options are available. It's worth discussing the best approach with your agronomist to suit your conditions and equipment. Foliar applications of micronutrients such as boron and molybdenum help the juvenile plants to overcome lacks when supply from soil is short.
Control Weeds Early: Timely application of pre-emergence herbicides is essential to minimise weed competition during the critical early growth phase. Aim to apply herbicides as soon as possible after drilling for best results. The best way to monitor slugs in arable crop is to place a bait such as chicken layers’ mash or cereal grain-based food under a refuge trap such as tiles or jute bags.
Slug Pressure: With vulnerable, slower-developing crops in some fields, careful slug monitoring and management will be critical. Be proactive with trapping and baiting, particularly in moist seedbeds or where trash levels are high.
Pigeons: Are a big threat to young OSR plants. Kites and bangers can help to keep pigeons out of the crops at stages when the plants are most vulnerable.