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March Agronomy Update by Bill Cabout, Ruralco’s Ashburton Store Manager

Fodder Crops:

Monitoring for pests and disease and applying water and fertiliser at the appropriate times is key to getting maximum yield from your forage crops.

Most sprays on fodder beet are done. If diseases like rust or powdery mildew appear, fungicides such as Escolta (42-day withholding) or Custodia (28-day withholding) can be applied.

Fodder brassicas may need insecticides for white butterfly, diamondback moth caterpillars and leaf miner. An aphicide should also be used to control aphids. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches are recommended to target pests while preserving beneficial insects.

Autumn Sown Crops:

For post-harvest crops, use diazinon or chlorpyrifos granules to control grass grub. Slug control is crucial, especially in irrigated fields with a lot of trash.

Pre-emergence sprays are necessary to control weeds. For wheat, use Firebird or Invado for hairgrass, and consider Asset for a broader range of weeds. Avadex Extra can help control wild oats pre-sowing. Sakura is a new herbicide for controlling various grasses and weeds. For wheat, pairing cultivars with appropriate sowing dates and managing plant populations are critical for achieving high yields.

For barley, Firebird or Invado can be used similarly.

For ryegrass Ethofumesate is used pre-emergence to control annual grasses and weeds.

Grass Grub Control in Pasture:

Grass grub is a significant pest in Canterbury pastures. Applying Diazinon liquid to short pasture in March and April, followed by sufficient rainfall (At least 12mm) to wash it in, is effective for controlling this pest. Ensuring timely application and adequate rainfall is crucial for the best results.

With all the above scenarios talk to your Ruralco representative for the best options for you and your situation.