Rapeseed (Brassica napus) is primarily grown for its oil-rich seeds, but it also serves as an excellent crop for wildlife food plots. The plant’s seeds are highly nutritious and attractive to deer, birds, and other wildlife, making it a beneficial addition to food plots designed to attract and nourish wildlife. Additionally, its fast growth provides quick cover and a reliable food source for various animals, especially in the fall and winter months.

Benefits for Wildlife

✔ Highly nutritious seeds – Rapeseed provides high-energy seeds that are a preferred food source for many species of wildlife.
✔ Fast-growing – Ideal for fall food plots, it matures quickly, offering wildlife immediate forage.
✔ Attractive foliage – The leaves are also palatable to grazing wildlife, such as deer and rabbits.
✔ Fall and winter food – Once matured, the seeds can be left on the plant for a prolonged food source.
✔ Excellent for attracting birds – The seeds draw songbirds, pheasants, and other bird species.

Planting Guidelines for Rapeseed

• Planting Times:

  • Spring (early March to April) for early harvest or late summer (mid-July to August) for a fall and winter food source. The growing season typically takes 90–100 days to reach maturity.

• Seeding Depth:

  • 1/2–1 inch deep to ensure proper germination and good seed-to-soil contact.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 5–8 lbs per acre for optimal plant establishment and coverage.
  • Broadcast: 8–12 lbs per acre; lightly incorporate the seed into the soil to improve germination rates.

• Days to Maturity:

  • Typically 90–100 days from planting to seed maturity, depending on growing conditions.

• Height at Maturity:

  • Can grow up to 3–5 feet tall, depending on soil fertility and environmental factors.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – While rapeseed is somewhat drought-tolerant, it requires adequate moisture during its growing period for best results.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low – Prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate waterlogging. Excessive moisture can lead to root diseases.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low – Requires full sun for optimal growth and seed production.

Fertilization Guidelines for Rapeseed

• Soil pH:

  • Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.0–7.5 for ideal growth.

• Nitrogen (N):

  • Apply 40–60 lbs of nitrogen per acre for optimal vegetative growth, especially in nitrogen-deficient soils. However, avoid over-application as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of seed production.

• Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K):

  • Ensure sufficient phosphorus for root development, applying around 30–40 lbs per acre, and potassium for overall plant health and resistance to diseases, around 30–50 lbs per acre.

Fertilization Timing:

• Fertilizers should be applied at planting or pre-planting, with nitrogen often applied as a split application – half at planting and the other half when plants reach the rosette stage.

Herbicide Use for Rapeseed

• Weed Control:

  • Rapeseed can be susceptible to competition from weeds, especially during early growth. Proper weed control is essential for healthy crop development.

• Pre-emergence Herbicides:

  • Herbicides like Pendimethalin and Trifluralin can be used to control weeds before the crop emerges. These are typically applied just after planting.