Rapeseed is an annual brassica with a deep and fibrous root system, known as a good nitrogen and phosphorous scavenger.
Seeding Rate (lbs. / acre)
- Drill: 2-3
- Broadcast: 4-6
- In a mix: 1-2
– Planting depth: 1/8”–1/4”
– Approximate seeds/lb: 120,000
– Days to germination: 5-7
Rapeseed Benefits & Info
- Upright, cool season broadleaf with a deep and fibrous root system – good N and P scavenger
- Winterhardiness allows for multiple grazing cycles in fall and winter
- Routinely overwinters in most of our footprint
- Often more difficult to terminate in the spring if allowed to go to seed
- Adapted to drought and a wide range of soil environments, including pH range of 5.8-8.0
- Rapeseed may attract some non-beneficial pests
- Often included in diverse cover crop mixes
Forage Considerations
- Cool season brassica that works well alone or seeded with oats
- Can start grazing 8-10 weeks after seeding
- Large leaves, high-quality forage
- Frost increases sugar concentration in leaves
- Not suited for hay or silage due to high plant moisture content
