Winfred Forage Brassica

Description

Winfred Forage Brassica is an annual forage that is a cross between a turnip and a kale.  Winfred has good frost tolerance  and retains leaf and stem quality in frosty and cold conditions.  Winfred matures at 10 to 12 weeks and can be planted in the spring (for multiple grazings) through late summer.  Winfred has an aggressive root system and once established it provides some tolerance to dry conditions.  This also makes it a great cover crop option in improving soils when grazing is incorporated.  Winfred is great for extending the grazing season into early winter.  Plant Barkant turnips for late fall grazing and Winfred forage brassica for early winter grazing.

Suggested seeding rates:  Seed 3-4 lbs/acre alone, 1-2 lbs/acre in a mixed stand.

Approx. seeds/lb.:  160,000 to 200,000

Seeding depth:  Seed 1/8″ deep in a firm, moist seedbed.

Ave. Emergence time (days):  7

Preferred soils:   Prefers good soil drainage.

Establishment:  Seed should be planted in a firm, moist seedbed. Winfred can be broadcasted or drilled with 6 to 8 inch rows at 3-4 lbs. per acre. It is very important not to plant the seed too deep; one-eighth of an inch will work best. To prevent disease and pest problems, brassicas should not be planted more than two consecutive years in the same location.  Winfred responds well to fertilizer.

Management suggestions:   Winfred can be sown in spring or late summer. Winfred is quick to establish, ready for first grazing 10-12 weeks after planting. Strip-grazing prevents both yield and quality losses due to tramping and polluting.   It is also important not to overfeed the cattle when they are allowed to graze the brassica at first. Extreme high dry matter intake of brassicas can cause health problems. Stock should be allowed to adjust to the change of diet. Supplementing with other forages will also prevent these problems.