The pros and cons of broadcasting seed on arable land

Broadcasting can establish small seed crops (such as oilseed rape and cover/catch crops) directly with or before the combine.

Effective broadcasting: Points to consider

• Residues should be evenly chopped and spread, as thick accumulations cause uneven establishment
• Yield can be affected by:
  • Compromised establishment
  • Nutrient availability/lock-up
  • Increased slug, disease or carry-over pressures
• Residual herbicide from the previous crop may dictate the choice of cover species capable of establishment and the need for cultivations
• Compaction at harvest – use controlled-traffic farming (CTF) and options to minimise ground pressures
• Restructure soil after establishment – if establishing a cover or catch crop – if conditions are suitable and disturbance is managed
• Broadcast into the previous crop to maximise the time for a catch, cover or conventional crop to grow (such benefits are critical when harvest is delayed or resources are limited)
• If broadcasting a mix, be aware that heavier seeds travel further from a disc-based spreader than lighter ones; boom-type spreaders are ideal