Introducing our new series ‘Down to Earth’ – Is it Time to Grow Oilseed Rape Again?
Our new series comes straight from E T Claydon & Sons, the home farm of Claydon Drills. E T Claydon & Sons is a multi-generation farming business which has been growing crops in the east of England for nearly 100 years. It is headed up by Jeff Claydon and his two Sons, Oliver and Spencer. Adam Clarke, from the Claydon sales team catches up with Jeff to hear his thoughts on a local Claydon-drilled oilseed rape crop.
Oilseed rape is beginning to re-enter the conversation on many arable farms, driven by stronger market prices and renewed confidence in establishment techniques. Successful establishment remains the single most important factor in producing a profitable crop and the Claydon Drill was specifically designed to overcome many of the challenges associated with growing oilseed rape.
One of the key advantages highlighted is the ability of the Claydon drill’s leading tine to create a deep rooting zone beneath the seed. Rather than restricting roots to the cultivated layers the tine fractures the soil to around 150mm, encouraging the development of a strong taproot capable of accessing deeper moisture and nutrients. This promotes better crop resilience, particularly during periods of drought, while also improving anchorage and overall plant health.
Moisture conservation is crucial to the success of an oilseed rape crop. by minimising soil disturbance and placing seed directly into the retained soil moisture immediately after combining, the Claydon System encourages rapid emergence. This is particularly important when establishing oilseed rape, where achieving vigorous early growth can help crops grow beyond the most vulnerable stage to cabbage stem flea beetle attack. Getting the crop established quickly is often the difference between success and failure. Click here to read an Agrovista article on combatting flea beetle.
Also to be considered is the economics of growing oilseed rape in comparison with Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) options. With current market prices exceeding £500 per tonne, oilseed rape is an attractive proposition, Jeff’s own farm currently benefits more from SFI payments through catch and winter cover crops followed by spring oats. This highlights that there is no universal solution, with the best rotational choice depending on the individual objectives and financial circumstances of each business.
Oilseed rape is a valuable break crop. Deep rooting helps improve the soil structure, stimulates biological activity and supports long-term soil health, while reduced establishment costs and lower fuel consumption further improve profitability. With an early harvest anticipated and soil moisture levels currently more favourable than last year in the region, growers should seriously consider oilseed rape where it fits their rotation, focusing on timely establishment, moisture retention and efficient drilling to maximise the chances of producing a successful and profitable crop.