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THIS PROMOTIONAL FEATURE WAS PROVIDED BY RAGT

Fodder beet remains a staple option in our ne w operating environment, where there is a focus on land use and nutrient losses. It is a flexible low-nitrogen crop that can meet regulatory requirements, while offering high yields and serving as a low-cost, high-energy feed with performance advantages for animals.

This season, RAGT will continue to offer a full range of high-performance fodder and sugar beet genetics across all key categories to the New Zealand market. Each of our four types of beet has slightly different characteristics to suit different farm systems and feed needs, so there’s a solution for everyone. To choose the right cultivar consider; what stock class it’s for, if it will be grazed in-situ, self-harvest or mechanically harvested, and whether it’s for maintenance feed or animal production.

BRIGADIER:
A firm favourite throughout New Zealand. With a soft bulb that sits much higher out of the soil compared to other forms of fodder beet, it is exceptionally well-suited to in-situ grazing, particularly for young livestock. Its low dry matter percentage further enhances utilisation rates, guaranteeing higher levels of consumption. Brigadier also has the ability to retain good levels of quality leaf into the cooler months helping benefit these systems further

1505BV:
A proven and excellent choice for a range of farm systems, delivering impressive results with its medium to high dry matter percentage and subsequently very high yields. Its above ground bulb proportion and consistent bulb size make it particularly well suited to intensive grazing systems, especially dairy. An added benefit of easy self-harvesting using beet buckets enhances its versatility, providing a high-quality feed option from autumn through to spring. 1505Bv boasts exceptional leaf retention and quality too, providing a valuable protein source, contributing nearly a quarter of its total yield.

MINOTAURE:
Offering exceptional versatility across a diverse range of systems, Minotaure seamlessly adapts whether it be for in-situ grazing or full mechanical harvesting, ensuring impressive results in the field. With its robust structure and uniform bulb size, this medium to high dry matter percentage variety delivers exceptional yields.

SUGA 3.0:
Superior genetics for farmers wanting the maximum flexibility and returns from their beet system. Selected for New Zealand conditions and bred specifically for mechanical harvesting, SUGA helps ensure optimum harvestable yields. With very high dry matter bulbs, this cultivar ensures long-term storability, a key component. It’s high energy content makes it an ideal, cost effective feed solution, suitable for all types of livestock throughout the year.

When planting RAGT beet this season, follow these tips for optimum results:

• Choose paddocks with a suitable history, optimal nutrient availability, and that can be prepared to an acceptable standard.
• Remember that activities before seedling emergence determine up to two thirds of the total crop yield.
• Check for subsoil restrictions that could hinder root development.
• Allow for an adequate fallow period to build up moisture and tackle weeds early.
• Ensure key nutrients are not limiting for plant emergence and growth.
• Create a fine, firm, and moist seedbed without over cultivation or compaction.
• Use a precision planter at a slow speed, considering environmental risks.
• Plant the appropriate rate for optimal field emergence based on beet type, line germination, and crop end use.
• Apply post-planting / pre-emergence herbicides and insecticides to minimise weed competition and insect damage during germination.
• Time input applications correctly for effective weed and pest control and optimal crop growth.
• Apply post-planting fertiliser to minimise bare ground exposure and promote canopy closure.
• A rapidly growing canopy with good ground cover can exploit sunshine hours and drive yield.
• Use registered fungicides to retain crop green leaf, ensuring proper timing and adherence to grazing withholding periods.

When grown optimally, beet offers high yields and serves as a cost-effective, high-energy feed with performance advantages for animals. For more information on RAGT beets, contact your local Ruralco representative.