A group of Upper North ladies are using focus paddocks on-farm to learn more about crop development.
The group is part of a new initiative called Ladies on the Land, which provides support and guidance through workshops to women with all levels of farming experience.
As part of the program, the 20 women involved have each assigned a focus crop paddock at home, one they have been monitoring and watching the growth and development of.
They then met in June to look at the various cereal types chosen by the group and the different growth stages the crops were at.
The day was organised by LOTL representative Jessica Koch and delivered by agronomist Lou Flohr, who has previously presented workshops for women in the southern Mallee.
The group then met again at Booleroo Centre this month, bringing more samples to analyse.
“Most of the samples were at the growing stage 30-33 stem elongation,” Mrs Koch said.
“Some also brought digital AgWorld records, which give a detailed summary of what has been sprayed and spread on their crops.
“Everyone was able to use the Zadok growth stage chart to identify what growth stage their crop was at.”
Ms Flohr explained the theory of crop rotations and why they were included in the farming system.
“There are many advantages of how legume and other break crops such as pasture, canola or even hay can benefit a farmer’s bottom line, particularly through nitrogen fixation,” Mrs Koch said.
She said some of the group was surprised that utilising a pasture option reserved a lot more moisture in the system than canola.
The group also looked at the benefits of a mixed livestock system.
“You can support your sheep on a productive pasture while fixing nitrogen and give your weeds a clean up at the same time,” Mrs Koch said.
As to the season in the region, Mrs Koch said above-average rainfall had provided a boost for crops after a staggered start.
“Winter rainfall has meant that all crops have had a great start and are developing beautifully,” she said.
While Russian wheat aphid is present in the region, Mrs Koch said the pest was under control, thanks to cooler temperatures.
“Farmers will continue to monitor the aphids into the warmer spring months and apply insecticides accordingly,” she said.
- Details: LOTL hub representative Jessica Koch 0419 982 125
