OSR growers urged to pay close attention to nutrition ahead of winter
7th October 2025
Favourable conditions going into autumn have given oilseed rape crops a strong start, but growers are being urged to pay close attention to nutrition ahead of winter, as tissue testing has highlighted deficiencies.
An early harvest provided the opportunity for prompt OSR establishment, and ample rain in the past month means these crops will be growing well. However, to make the most of these conditions, FMC highlights the importance of micronutrition.
Chris Bond, crop nutrition product manager at FMC, explained that tissue testing results show increasing nutrient deficiencies – particularly magnesium, sulphur, zinc and boron – which could compromise crop resilience heading into winter.
He said: “Due to the wet winter last year, followed by a very dry summer, we’re seeing that magnesium, sulphur and boron have leached from soils. Zinc availability could also be limited if conditions change to cold and wet.
“Without intervention, crops may struggle to maintain strong growth and resilience as they move towards dormancy.”
Consider targeted foliar nutrition
Mr Bond explained that developing a robust canopy before winter ensures continuous photosynthesis, while a healthy root system allows crops to scavenge for nutrients and withstand stress.
“Micronutrients like boron and molybdenum support root development and nitrogen use efficiency, while magnesium underpins photosynthetic capacity and zinc improves cold tolerance.”
To address these deficiencies, FMC is advising growers to consider targeted foliar nutrition.
“A foliar application ensures nutrients go straight into the plant, bypassing the risk of lock-up or leaching in soils,” Mr Bond added.
“This season, we’re recommending Stoker, which delivers a balanced package of boron, molybdenum, sulphur, magnesium, manganese and zinc.
“Applied from the four-leaf stage through to winter dormancy, it gives crops the resilience they need to stay strong through winter, with a follow-up in the spring further enhancing results.”
The expert said that with OSR areas up this year, many crops look worth investing in.
“Crops that entered the ground early have already built biomass, so the focus now is on maintaining their health. With targeted nutrition, growers can protect that potential and set crops up for a productive spring,” he concluded.
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