• Select free draining paddocks that are able to be prepared to a good standard
• Avoid paddocks where previous crops have had residual chemicals used
• Soil test early using a 150mm soil probe. Test pH of paddocks being considered for Fodder Beet well before sowing. A pH above 6 is required, ideally 6.2
• Spray out and prepare seed bed as early as possible, using a double spray programme if necessary
• A fallow period should be used to help conserve soil moisture
• Fertiliser use should be based on recent soil tests, fertiliser should not be applied with seed
• A fine, firm seed bed is essential (heel indent should just be seen)
• Apply insecticides prior to or at drilling if required, monitor for insect pests post establishment
• Sow into adequate soil moisture from when soil temperature is at least 10_C (pay attention to night time soil temperatures as well as day time and check last frost date)

• Best results are achieved using a precision drill. Sow seeds at 1.5 – 2.0cm depth. Make sure coulters have an even depth
• Sow one full box per hectare (80,000 seeds), when using a precision drill
• Drill speed should be low, to avoid poor seed placement, 4 – 5 kph maximum
• Apply post plant/pre emergence herbicide after sowing, if conditions are dry this may have to be applied and incorporated prior to sowing
• Plan your herbicide program based on expected weeds, and to avoid delay in correct timing of application.
• Apply when crop has at least two true leaves and before weeds reach the four true leaf stage
• Apply second nitrogen application close to canopy closure

• Average crop maturity timeframe is 200 + days (maturity will vary depending on location and climate and is intended as a guide only).

How to graze

• When feeding ensure to strip graze crop.
• Preferably shift break on a daily basis.

When to graze SF Fodder Beet

• SF fodder beet will generally be fed off prior to August, however bulbs will maintain quality longer if need be.
• Normal feeding is from May to August.

What else should be used as part of the ration?

• Feed ration can be set up similar to brassicas.
• A balanced diet of pasture/silage/straw or hay will help to alleviate potential issues in a similar fashion to when feeding brassicas

• Immature beets should not be fed to stock due to potentially high levels of nitrates.
• Consider supplementing a source of calcium if the tops are not wilted.
• Possible ration:

- 50 – 60% as SF fodder beet - 30 – 35% as grass silage - Remainder as hay or straw

Issues to be aware of with feeding SF Fodder Beet

• Immature crops are high in nitrates.
• Feed mature crops.
• The leaf of beets can have low levels of oxalates that can cause scouring. Introduce stock slowly and feed a balanced diet to help alleviate issues.

Overseas they wilt the leaves prior to feeding or supplement with calcium.

Close monitoring of crop and animal performance will ensure greatest success.