Rapeseed (Brassica napus) is primarily grown for its oil-rich seeds, but it also serves as an excellent crop for wildlife food plots. The plant’s seeds are highly nutritious and attractive to deer, birds, and other wildlife, making it a beneficial addition to food plots designed to attract and nourish wildlife. Additionally, its fast growth provides quick cover and a reliable food source for various animals, especially in the fall and winter months.
Benefits for Wildlife
✔ Highly nutritious seeds – Rapeseed provides high-energy seeds that are a preferred food source for many species of wildlife.
✔ Fast-growing – Ideal for fall food plots, it matures quickly, offering wildlife immediate forage.
✔ Attractive foliage – The leaves are also palatable to grazing wildlife, such as deer and rabbits.
✔ Fall and winter food – Once matured, the seeds can be left on the plant for a prolonged food source.
✔ Excellent for attracting birds – The seeds draw songbirds, pheasants, and other bird species.
Planting Guidelines for Rapeseed
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Planting Times:
- Spring (early March to April) for early harvest or late summer (mid-July to August) for a fall and winter food source. The growing season typically takes 90–100 days to reach maturity.
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Seeding Depth:
- 1/2–1 inch deep to ensure proper germination and good seed-to-soil contact.
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Seeding Rates:
- Drilled: 5–8 lbs per acre for optimal plant establishment and coverage.
- Broadcast: 8–12 lbs per acre; lightly incorporate the seed into the soil to improve germination rates.
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Days to Maturity:
- Typically 90–100 days from planting to seed maturity, depending on growing conditions.
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Height at Maturity:
- Can grow up to 3–5 feet tall, depending on soil fertility and environmental factors.
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Drought Tolerance:
- Moderate – While rapeseed is somewhat drought-tolerant, it requires adequate moisture during its growing period for best results.
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Saturated Soil Tolerance:
- Low – Prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate waterlogging. Excessive moisture can lead to root diseases.
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Shade Tolerance:
- Low – Requires full sun for optimal growth and seed production.
Fertilization Guidelines for Rapeseed
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Soil pH:
- Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.0–7.5 for ideal growth.
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Nitrogen (N):
- Apply 40–60 lbs of nitrogen per acre for optimal vegetative growth, especially in nitrogen-deficient soils. However, avoid over-application as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of seed production.
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Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K):
- Ensure sufficient phosphorus for root development, applying around 30–40 lbs per acre, and potassium for overall plant health and resistance to diseases, around 30–50 lbs per acre.
Fertilization Timing:
- Fertilizers should be applied at planting or pre-planting, with nitrogen often applied as a split application – half at planting and the other half when plants reach the rosette stage.
Herbicide Use for Rapeseed
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Weed Control:
- Rapeseed can be susceptible to competition from weeds, especially during early growth. Proper weed control is essential for healthy crop development.
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Pre-emergence Herbicides:
- Herbicides like Pendimethalin and Trifluralin can be used to control weeds before the crop emerges. These are typically applied just after planting.