New approaches to increasing fodder production 3. Stubble catch-cropping with brassicae

Direct drilling of brassicae after harvesting winter cereals can provide valuable additional winter keep for ruminant livestock without any reduction in the cereal area. Forage rape and “stubble turnips” provide initial growth but deteriorate early; the swede-like Hungry Gap and Rape Kale are hardier and can provide useful fresh growth in early spring. Nitrogen fertilizer is especially important with direct-drilled crops. Suitable precautions must be taken against clubroot.