Should I Grow Oilseed Rape This Autumn?

Welcome to Tramlines, a podcast from Agrii. I'm your host, Tony Smith, putting your questions to the experts. Today, we’re talking with David Leaper, Agrii’s Seed Technical Specialist, and Tim Horton, Technical Manager for Combining All Crops.

With ongoing concerns about the reliability of oilseed rape, we’re exploring a key question: should you consider growing oilseed rape this autumn?

Current Condition of Oilseed Rape Crops

Tony Smith: So, David, how are oilseed rape crops faring this spring?

David Leaper: This year has been incredibly challenging for growing oilseed rape, perhaps the toughest I’ve seen. We’re dealing with the legacy of cabbage stem flea beetle and wet autumn conditions, which have impacted establishment and yield. The crop is highly variable across the country; some areas look fantastic, while others are struggling, with some crops already pulled up.

Technical Inquiries and Key Challenges

Tony Smith: Tim, what technical inquiries have you been fielding this spring?

Tim Horton: This season, wet soils have been problematic. Fortunately, cabbage stem flea beetle larvae levels appear lower, but early weed control has been challenging. Many are still chasing down weeds even now, which complicates crop management.

Why Grow Oilseed Rape?

Tony Smith: David, can you remind us why oilseed rape is an important crop?

David Leaper: Oilseed rape came onto the scene in the 70s and peaked in the 2010s. It’s ideal as an entry crop for winter wheat, and there’s strong global demand for rapeseed oil. It used to be low-cost and straightforward to grow, but with pests and diseases, it’s become more specialised, requiring careful attention to detail.

Tim Horton: Yes, it also has been one of the most reliable margin-return crops, fitting well in rotations. Despite recent challenges, it can still deliver economically when managed well.

Establishment Benefits and Risks

Tony Smith: David, what’s the benefit of establishing oilseed rape early?

David Leaper: Having a winter crop in the ground is less risky than relying on spring conditions. Early establishment has historically proven reliable, though we are seeing increased use of spring cropping due to issues like blackgrass.

Tony Smith: Tim, what risks are associated with early autumn establishment?

Tim Horton: Early establishment reduces the impact of cabbage stem flea beetles, especially with companion crops like buckwheat to mitigate damage. However, early drilling also increases weed and disease pressure, so it’s a balancing act.

Variety Choice and Disease Management

Tony Smith: How important is variety choice for oilseed rape?

David Leaper: Very important. Modern varieties offer vigorous growth, resilience to pests, and disease resistance. We’re seeing improvements in tolerance to diseases like light leaf spot and verticillium stem stripe. Choosing the right variety can make a big difference.

Soil and Establishment Requirements

Tim Horton: Oilseed rape needs a strong root system and thick stems to withstand flea beetle larvae. Soil condition is key, as is early nutrition to support establishment.

David Leaper: There are risk-sharing schemes now that cover seed and herbicide costs, offering refunds if crops fail to establish. This gives growers confidence, even with the high upfront costs of oilseed rape.

Companion Crops

Tony Smith: What role do companion crops play?

Tim Horton: Companion crops, like buckwheat, improve nutrient access and reduce flea beetle damage. While mixed species can increase costs, they bring additional benefits, making it worth considering.

Alternative Crops

Tony Smith: What are the alternatives if farmers choose not to grow oilseed rape?

David Leaper: Options are limited, especially on heavy land. Field beans, maize (if there’s a livestock or AD opportunity), and winter linseed are alternatives. Some farmers are considering rotational breaks with legume fallows, especially with the introduction of SFI payments.

Expert Advice and Closing Thoughts

Tim Horton: Establishment is crucial. Use the right conditions and soil state, apply early weed control, and consider using a companion crop. Focus on setting the crop up for success from the start.

David Leaper: For those who’ve been burnt by oilseed rape, keep an open mind. The crop can still be profitable. Consider an opportunistic approach: if conditions are favourable, go for it. Take advantage of risk-share schemes for extra confidence.

To understand what the best arable crop varieties are for this Autumn, read the latest yearbook at yearbook.agrii.co.uk packed full of not only variety info but seed treatments and our MasterSeeds service.