THE Cootamundra region has been fortunate to receive some good rainfall in the past fortnight, encouraging many growers to start their cropping program for 2019.
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Some producers who sowed early with grazing canola and oats are reaping the rewards with stock already grazing some paddocks.
It is important to ensure stock are carefully introduced to lush green feed by: never introducing hungry/stressed stock directly onto crops, consider a clostridial vaccine, B12 and vitamin ADE injection, and the use of powdered licks/blocks whilst grazing to aid in prevention of bloat, scours and grass tetany.
April will be a busy month of sowing with dual purpose winter wheats being planted at the start of the month, followed by main season canola at the end of the month.
It is important to consider a pre-emergent herbicide package to reduce competition with weeds as the crop becomes established, and to lessen the pressure on post emergent spraying. Plant establishment is a critical period in the crop cycle, as germinating seedlings are at their most vulnerable and susceptible to pests.
Key things to look for during germination include: Is the crop coming up evenly? Is there any visual damage to leaves of seedlings? Can you see any insects on the plant or on the soil surrounding them?
If pest numbers are high, take action as soon as possible to prevent holding the crop back, but remember that if pest numbers are not at the economic threshold there may not be any financial benefit in control.
