The Rata Blog

Discover innovations, news and tips from NZ's own farm machinery attachments manufacturer.

5 Tips For Effective Fertiliser Spreading

Posted by Sam Searle on Jun 1, 2018 1:14:00 PM

Spreading fertilisers doesn't require a great deal of complication, however if you want to achieve maximum results a little effort will take you a long way. Below we have put 5 of the many tips we have gathered from Farmers, Contractors, Spread rate testers & Researchers over the last little while.


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Topics: Fertiliser Spreading, Tips, Hacks & How To's, Pasture & Crop Management

How to transition stock onto Fodder Beet

Posted by Sam Searle on Apr 30, 2018 11:29:45 AM

 

Fodder Beet has been something between magic & revolutionary for many farmers over the last few years. Its the wonder crop that can substantially increase the winter carrying capacity of a farm, allowing for more stock or opening up other opportunities for the operation. Here we tell you how much beet to feed out & when in order to successfully transition to the crop without losses.


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Topics: Fodder Beet, Silage & Winter Feed Handling, Tips, Hacks & How To's

How To Spread Slug Bait Effectively For Greatest Protection Of Crops & Pasture

Posted by Sam Searle on Apr 9, 2018 2:20:54 PM

 

Slug bait is regarded & proven to be the most effective method for controlling slugs in pasture & cropping situations. It's important you know how to spread it effectively in order to get the best coverage & results to afford your crops the maximum protection. Spread methods, spread patterns, and knowing the real application rates are all important factors to ensure the job is done properly.


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Topics: Pest & Disease Control, Tips, Hacks & How To's, Pasture & Crop Management

How To Prevent Slug Damage To Pasture & Crops

Posted by Sam Searle on Mar 21, 2018 12:03:00 PM

 

Damage to pastures & crops by slugs is a great cost to farmers if they are not managed & kept under control, to the point of having devastating effects. 

 

The threat of slug damage is great at anytime of the year, however their numbers are greatest during spring, declining over summer then increase again in Autumn when weather conditions become favourable for them. Slugs will still be active during summer in areas with high rain fall that provides wet soils.


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Topics: Pest & Disease Control, Tips, Hacks & How To's, Pasture & Crop Management