The Job’s Not Finished at Seeding!

Careful preparation and seeding of a crop or pasture are only the first steps in the management process. There is a great deal of careful management practises needed after the Agrowdrill has given your seed the best chance of establishment.

Weed control

Effective weed control can be the difference between a profit and disaster. Good weed control before seeding will ensure emerging seedlings have a good start and an even better finish.

Certified seed, adequate fertility, correct seeding rates and placement of seed will put the odds in your favour for good germination and emergence.

The management practices after emergence however are just as important. Inspect your crop or pasture regularly for weed growth. If weeds become a problem you have a number of options open to you:

• Use a selective herbicide to kill weeds.
• Strategic grazing or slashing can help reduce weed growth.
• Applying fertiliser may help in some situations.
• Cutting hay can remove weeds.

Insect Pest Control

Insect pests can seriously damage emerging or established crops and pastures. During your regular inspection you should also be on the lookout for insects. Consideration of the following points will help prevent or eliminate insects:

• Grow species or varieties that are resistant to the common pests in your area.
• Use treated seed.
• Spray only if absolutely necessary.

Note: Information on chemical control of weeds and insects should be available from government advisory officers, agricultural consultants, chemical resellers or spraying contractors.

Use of Fertiliser

Maintaining good nutrition is important for sustained production

All crops and pastures can benefit, in some situations, from additional fertiliser after seeding. Fertiliser can be added in many forms.

Grazing Management

New pastures can usually only stand light grazing in the first season. Perennial crops can also be grazed.

The following are some important points to remember:

• Graze only when plants cannot be pulled out
• Graze heavily for short periods to remove weeds.
• Some species need to set seed each year, so allow this to take place.
• Allow plenty of time for the pasture to recover after grazing.