Redstart Hybrid Brassica
Redstart Hybrid Brassica is a unique utility fodder crop, which offers the highly beneficial combination of rapid growth ability and good all year round performance. The forage rape genes in Redstart Hybrid Brassica give it the ability to grow very fast while the kale genes deliver very good winter hardiness. Redstart Hybrid Brassica is a superb catch crop for countering late season grazing shortages.
Main uses
- High energy grazing for cattle and sheep
- Summer, autumn or winter grazing
- Ideal for out-wintering
Key benefits
- Very rapid and vigorous growth
- Winter hardiness
- Regrowth potential
- Good late season yield potential
- High energy and good protein source
Sowing time: June to August
Seed rate: 3.5 – 4.0 kg/acre
Yield: 6 – 8 t DM/ha
Utilisation period: Earlier sowings have the potential for multiple grazings. Later sowings can be utilised until February
Usage Guide – Redstart
Sowing rate 3.5 – 4.0 kg/acre (if broadcasting use higher sowing rate)
Sowing Time May to August (earlier sowing will allow multiple grazings)
Sowing Depth 10 mm
Sowing Instructions Soil test approximately 8 weeks prior to sowing. Cultivate to achieve a fine, firm seed bed. Ploughing will help level rough fields. Apply lime as per soil test results. Sow in good conditions (warm with rain forecast), no deeper than 10 mm. Roll well after sowing to ensure good soil/seed contact. Apply N, P & K as per soil test results and nitrates rules.
After sowing Monitor for pest attack and seek advice where a problem arises
Fertiliser Rate N, P and K guidelines for Hybrid Brassica (source: Teagasc Green Book)
| Soil Index | ||||
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| N (kg/ha)1 | 150 | 130 | 100 | 70 |
| P (kg/ha) | 60 | 50 | 30 | 0 |
| K (kg/ha) | 220 | 210 | 170 | 0 |
1A split dressing for hybrid brassica is advised. Spread half N at sowing and half approx. 3 weeks later.
Uses Dairy – Y
Cattle – Y
Sheep – Y
Grazing Management
- Brassicas are low in iodine, copper, cobalt and selenium – a slow-release bolus will ensure animals receive adequate minerals
- Supplementary fibre (e.g. silage, hay or straw) should account for 30% of the diet, with 70% coming from the brassica
- Introduce stock to brassicas gradually (build up from 1-2 hours access per day to full time access over 10-14 days)
- Always ensure animals have access to fresh water