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THIS PROMOTIONAL FEATURE WAS PROVIDED BY PIONEER

Jason and Clare Nish have successfully grown maize in Mid Canterbury over the past ten years. 

In the spring edition of Real Farmer, we covered why Jason and Clare Nish use maize on their 185ha 630 cow dairy farm. This article explores the challenges of growing maize and outlines the strategies implemented in partnership with Ruralco and Pioneer to grow a successful maize crop. 

This spring, Jason planted 10.5 hectares of maize into a sprayed-out paddock of Italian ryegrass and cultivated it to create a nice fire seed bed. A precision planter was used to plant the crop on the 25th of October at a sowing rate of 115,000 plants per hectare. “Over the years, I’ve tried and tested several varieties, but this year, I chose to plant P8333,” said Jason. He explained that he always tries to keep up with the latest advancements in genetics to ensure he uses the best hybrid. 

During the establishment phase, the crop faced a weed challenge. However, Melinda Driscoll, Ruralco’s Senior Dairy Specialist, assisted by making a spray recommendation that effectively controlled both broadleaf and grass weeds. Melinda emphasises the importance of conducting regular crop checks during the establishment phase to promptly identify and address potential challenges. 

Jason followed a fertilisation plan tailored to meet the crop’s specific needs. The fertiliser was divided into three separate applications, with the first applied as a base fertiliser at the planting time. The remaining two nitrogen applications were split and applied after the establishment of the crop, ensuring optimal growth and development. 

Rachel Bell, Pioneer’s Canterbury Area Manager, inspected the crop with Jason as it was tasselling earlier in the year. Rachel commented, “Weather conditions have been ideal with plenty of rain. Despite the early weed pressure, the crop is looking great and should be on track to yielding between 22–25 tDM/ha”. Based on how the crop is moving through its growth stages, it should be ready for harvest around early to mid-April. 

In the last couple of years, new shorter-maturity hybrids have been introduced in the South Island. This new trend is proving to be highly beneficial for farmers as these crops are more consistent and ready for harvest earlier, allowing grass planting in the Autumn. 

To learn more about the best practices for growing maize, contact your local Ruralco or Pioneer representative, who will provide all the necessary information.

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