In the last two months Oilseed rape has been sewn back in the ground, growing now for harvest next summer. The early growth stages (GS0 – GS2) of OSR are critical with crops being vulnerable in a unfavourable growing environment during this period being susceptible to poor seedbed conditions, weather, pests and soil borne diseases.
Image: AHDB Early growth stages of oilseed rape (GS0-GS2)
Now the OSR is over its initial stages of germination and emergence (GS0), it has reached the next stage, leaf development (GS1) and side-shoot production (GS2). At these stages, Skippy Scout continues to play a vital role in assessing growth variability, crop health and guiding decision-making.
Leaf development extends through autumn and winter, making it the lengthiest phase. OSR’s growth characteristics allow it to be an adaptable crop that can cope with low plant populations. To achieve this, it increases the production of lateral shoots (branches) and consequently, generates more flowers. Furthermore the crop can withstand well-timed mowing or controlled grazing, which help control cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) larvae during the winter, as long as this occurs before stem extension.
Image: Skippy Scout report showing OSR as GS1 and GS2
Here at Harehope Farm in Northumberland, Skippy Scout is being employed to inspect crops using high-definition, close-up leaf-level imagery. The farm utilises Skippy to identify various points of interest across their fields, once the flight has taken place they use Skippy’s automatically generated and detailed reports to check them. Monitoring the overall health of the crops allows them to make more informed decisions quickly and repeatedly going forward throughout the season.
This adoption of Skippy has significantly improved decision making and productivity on the farm.
If you are interested in using Skippy Scout, please get in contact with us.