Courtesy of Cropmark Seeds Fodder beet is many things, but it is not forgiving! In return for very high yields and energy, it demands close to perfect conditions for establishment. Sown at a fraction of the rate used for forage brassicas, it not only starts life with thousands fewer plants per ha – each of which must survive – but takes longer to get going. Fortunately, we know what’s needed to achieve the best possible start for crops of varieties such as Geronimo. Soil nutrients, paddock preparation, early weed control and early insecticide – are the key priorities. Getting fertility right starts 6-12 months before sowing. Soil test to 150 mm deep, with special focus on pH because fodder beet […]
Category: Forage Crop Advice
10 benefits of using Summer Extra Multi Species seed mix
There is plenty of discussion around multi species pastures and regenerative farming, but ultimately a summer forage crop still needs to do its main job – grow useful feed for livestock. That is the thinking behind our Summer EXTRA Multi Species Blend. Summer EXTRA combines 14 different forage species, including millet, oats, vetch, clovers, brassicas, chicory, plantain, sunflower, buckwheat and linseed. Each species has a purpose, whether that’s producing feed, fixing nitrogen, providing ground cover or adding greater root and plant diversity. Here are 10 reasons we like using a diverse multi species seed mix through summer. Produce quality summer feed First and foremost, Summer EXTRA is a forage crop. Shirohie Millet provides the backbone of the blend for summer […]
Summer EXTRA – diversity that works through summer
Summer EXTRA is our most diverse summer forage blend, combining 14 grasses, cereals, legumes, brassicas, herbs and flowering species. Gavin Notman explains why we developed the blend, what each species contributes and how to get the best result from establishment through to grazing.
Our Top Brassica & Beet Varieties for 2026/27
Choosing the right summer forage crop starts with knowing what job it needs to do. We look at our key brassica and fodder beet varieties for 2026/27, including Marco, Barkant, Rifleman, Mainstar, Kea, CleanCrop Bulb Turnip and Geronimo Fodder Beet.
5 Reasons to Choose Halo Seed Treatment
Give every seed the best possible start. Halo Seed Treatment protects emerging seedlings from damaging insects during establishment, promoting stronger, more uniform pastures and forage crops.
Forage Radish: A Functional Layer in Summer Forage Mixes
Forage Radish plays a vital role in summer blends. Its deep taproot improves soil structure, lifts nutrients, and supports the performance of surrounding species in Top Crop and Summer Multi-Species mixes. A small inclusion that delivers a big service underground.
2025 Spring Forage Guide – Notman Pasture Seeds
A new look! Explore our 2025 Spring Forage Guide — proven seed options, forage blends, management tips & pasture strategies to grow reliable spring and summer feed or harvest crops for your farm.
Spring 2025 Digital Brochures Now Available
Download the latest spring digital brochures from DLF Seeds, Cropmark Seeds and Pioneer Seeds. Explore pasture, forage and maize options with local agronomy insights.
Shirohie Millet – Quick, Safe Summer Feed
Shirohie Millet is an easy-to-grow summer forage, ready to graze in 6–8 weeks. Safe for all livestock and ideal for grazing, silage, hay, or mixes.
Go Back to the Future with Turnips
Turnips remain a smart summer feed option for dairy and beef farms. Quick to establish, high-energy, and easy to manage, Marco®, Barkant and Mammoth Purple Top provide flexible grazing from 50–120 days. Discover how to plan, sow and protect your crop with Notman Pasture Seeds.