2025
In the central and southern regions, farmers increasingly observe signs of nitrogen starvation on winter rapeseed crops. The reason is sharp temperature fluctuations and active mineralisation of crop residues. This was reported by the agri-technology development manager for the Southern region of LNZ Group, Serhii Korniushenko.
According to the specialist, the swings between day and night temperatures slow the intake of nutrient elements into the plant.
"On most fields where rapeseed is sown, phosphorus blocking is observed. The crop's leaves take on a purple tint, which is a typical manifestation of phosphorus starvation," Serhii Korniushenko specified.
Another factor that aggravates the problem is the high amount of nutrient residues after the previous crops of winter wheat and barley and surface tillage. Because of this, in the early growth stages rapeseed feels a shortage of this element.
The specialist noted that under such conditions an effective solution is foliar feeding using complex fertilisers. One of the proven options is DEFENDA Macro at a rate of 2 l/ha. The product contains a balanced set of macroelements, which promotes the rapid restoration of growth processes and improves the uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus even under unfavourable weather conditions.
"The use of DEFENDA Macro makes it possible to support the rapeseed plants during a period of shortage of the necessary nutrient elements, ensure uniform plant development and prepare them for wintering," Serhii Korniushenko summed up.
