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Greenfeed oats are an essential component of New Zealand's winter-feeding systems. Sown in autumn, they provide high-quality, fast-growing feed to sustain livestock through the colder months. Greenfeed oats are particularly valuable for dairy and beef farmers, offering a cost-effective and reliable forage solution once it’s too late to plant brassicas in Autumn.

Greenfeed oats germinate quickly, making them an ideal choice for early forage. They establish quickly and provide an early feed source when other pastures are limited, this makes them ideal for ensuring consistent feed supply through winter, supporting animal health and production.

Oats deliver a high-yielding, palatable feed that maintains good digestibility.

Best Management practices:

1. Selecting the right variety – it is important to choose an oat variety suited for winter grazing.
2. Optimal sowing time – for best results, sow greenfeed oats between February and May. Early sowing ensures better establishment and maximises winter growth potential. It is important to manage sowing rates and depth dependent on the soil condition. Well prepared soil promotes strong establishment and early growth.
3. Weed and pest control – Autumn sowing provides an opportunity to control problem weeds before planting. Proper paddock preparation and timely herbicide application help prevent weed competition.

Autumn-sown greenfeed oats are a practical and effective ensuring reliable winter feed supply. Their rapid establishment, excellent nutritional value, and environmental benefits make them a valuable part of forage systems. By selecting the right variety, managing sowing and grazing effectively, and integrating oats into a broader farm plan, farmers can maximise productivity and sustainability through the winter months. At Ruralco, we provide access to a comprehensive range of greenfeed oat varieties, talk to your Ruralco representative to find the right variety for your farm system.