MAINSTAR FORAGE RAPE: DEMONSTRATES SUPERIOR ANIMAL PREFERENCE IN ARMIDALE NSW Sowing Mainstar forage rape, a brassica that features newer genetics, high palatability, and a high leaf to stem ratio, can help farmers improve their return on investment by providing…
• preferential grazing for sheep.
• better utilisation.
• a higher
• more feed.
• higher weight gains.
carcass weight.
FIGURE 1: Dry matter remaining after grazing days
Here’s what happened: Day 1: Sheep preferentially grazed Mainstar and only Mainstar. Day 2, 3 and 4: Aside from a few nibbles, sheep continued to preferentially graze Mainstar until approximately 20% was left. After 80% of Mainstar had been grazed: Sheep began grazing other plants. Rest of the trial: Sheep began grazing the other forage rape varieties (but only once Mainstar was mostly gone). Why did this happen? Mainstar forage rape is one of the market leading forage rapes for good reason. Amongst other features and benefits, it… • has a high leaf percentage, tender leaves and less stem. • was specifically bred for higher palatability and better utilisation. • provides feed when pasture quality and moisture is low. • has a strong tolerance to Aphids. • provides more leaf regrowth after grazing. All of which lead to superior animal preference, easier grazing and more useable feed. A recently released study from Armidale, NSW, demonstrated sheep’s grazing preference of Mainstar, compared to other forage rape varieties.
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80% of Mainstar dry matter grazed within 4 days
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Time (days)
Greenland
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Leafmore
Mainstar
Subzero
Winfred
Note: Removed from figure 1: Other DLF Seeds brassica varieties.
Trial conclusion Mainstar forage rape has shown to be a top choice for sheep, leading to better utilisation and potentially higher profits for farmers.
For full trial details, visit www.dlfseeds.com.au/about/news/mainstar-forage- rape-demonstrates-superior-animal-preference-in-armidale-nsw
1800 619 910 | dlfseeds.com.au
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