Triumph swede

Usage guide: Triumph swede

Sowing rate:

• Sow 1 kg/acre with a conventional drill, no deeper than 15mm
• Or broadcast at 2 kg/acre
• Or with graded seed, sow at 0.4 kg/acre (Grade H) with a precision drill
• Sow into warm soil with moisture forecast.

Sowing time: Mid-May to late June

Sowing depth: 10 mm

Sowing instructions: Soil test approximately 8 weeks prior to sowing. Cultivate to achieve a fine, firm seedbed. Ploughing will help level rough fields. Apply lime as per soil test results. Sow in good conditions (warm with rain forecast), no deeper than 15 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 swedes and turnips (kg/ha) (Source: Teagasc Green Book)

¹Top-dressings are not usually required, however, following wet seasons where crops are backward, top dress with up to 30 kg/ha N

²If soil P value is above 15 mg/l, no fertiliser P is necessary

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