Latest Ruralco News

We will look at the following this month: Fodder crops, Crops, Autumn sown Crops, Grass grub control in Pasture and use of Gibberellic Acid.

February delivered a welcome run of settled weather, allowing harvest to push ahead across the district. With short spells but long fine days, most farmers have been able to wrap up their harvest or are well on top of their harvest schedules.

Ruralco CEO Tony Aitken has been awarded Excellence in Business Leadership at the ANZ Business of the Year Awards held in Ashburton Friday night.

Wakanui-based mixed arable and dairy farmer Matthew Paton's decision to run for the Ruralco Board of Directors was motivated by watching previous generations of local farmers contribute their time and knowledge to ensure the co-operative’s continued success.

The Mayfield A&P Association will celebrate its centennial show on Saturday, March 14. More than just an event, the Mayfield Show is, and has always been, a celebration of the community featuring traditional agricultural competitions, livestock, produce, trade stalls, side shows, and a family fun day out for young and old alike.

The start of the year has kept us on our toes, with plenty of rain, but a few good harvest days in between have kept the month moving. Moist soils and low insect pressure have supported good crop and pasture growth but need continuous monitoring.

This month we will look at fodder beet crops, crops, autumn sown crops, and grass grub control in pasture.

Arable growers worried that some weeds in their crops may have developed herbicide resistance can now get the suspected plants tested for free. 

If target yields or production are not being achieved, and the key macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur) are adequately supplied, a micronutrient deficiency may be limiting performance.

Registrations are now open for the 2026 Ruralco Golf Classic, set to be held on Friday, 6 March 2026 at Tinwald Golf Course, with all proceeds once again supporting the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust.