Winter oats – March 2020

Weeds

Where autumn residuals were applied, in many cases they have worked well.  If weeds have escaped the autumn residual, or nothing has been applied yet, only broad-leaved weeds can be controlled in the spring.   There are no herbicides for grass weed control in winter oats in the spring.   Winter oats are sensitive to herbicides – don’t treat during periods of cold weather, or if the crop is under stress.  Always check the label.

Plant growth regulators

Thicker crops in a high fertility situation are, particularly at risk.  Weaker varieties are at greatest risk.

Straw strength ratings of varieties on the 2020 Scottish Recommended List are given below:

• Dalguise – 4
• Gerald – 6

Growth regulators are effective on actively growing crops.  Do not treat crops under stress.