Farmfact 1-77

Fodder Beet - Growing a High Yield Crop

Fodder beet is a specialist crop that is more expensive per ha to grow than other crops, but can deliver outstanding results to offset this if grown and managed correctly. Attention to detail and planning of both growing and grazing with contractors in advance are crucial for success.
Fodder beet can produce high yields of quality feed for periods of winter pasture deficit or to utilize during the shoulder periods of autumn/spring
Fodder beet is sensitive to moisture deficit in early stages of establishment
For good establishment fodder beet must have a firm fine seedbed with good soil seed contact and a uniform plant population
Apply appropriate basal fertiliser pre-plant to reach a realistic yield potential. To reach yield potential, the crop must never be under nutrient deficit during active growth
Strategies for weed and pest control are of utmost importance and the programme should be established before planting and then managed carefully right through the life of the crop
A planned approach to growing fodder beet increases the success of the crop and the benefits to the farm as a whole
By having a realistic estimate of potential yield and desired feeding level you can prepare a feed budget and determine the appropriate land area required