Forage brassicas are a powerhouse feed option for Australian livestock systems, but they come with a challenge: pests that can strip your crop of its potential before you even get to grazing.
From cabbage white butterfly to diamondback moth and grey cabbage aphid, these pests don’t just nibble - they can devastate yields and compromise feed quality.
So, how do you stay ahead of the curve? It starts with understanding the problem and acting early.
Why timing is everything
Forage brassicas grow fast, and so do their pests. The first 4 to 6 weeks after establishment are critical. Caterpillars and aphids can move in quickly, and if left unchecked, they’ll chew through your investment before the crop even hits its stride.
Key insight: Early intervention isn’t just about saving leaves. It’s about protecting the plant’s ability to photosynthesise and build energy reserves for grazing.
The hidden cost of waiting
Many growers underestimate the speed at which pest populations explode. A few larvae today can mean thousands tomorrow. By the time you see visible damage, you’ve already lost yield potential. And while brassicas can bounce back from some stress, repeated defoliation or aphid pressure during bulb development can slash feed value and persistence.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): your best ally
The good news? You don’t have to fight this battle alone. Beneficial insects like parasitoid wasps, hoverflies, ladybirds and lacewings are natural pest controllers. Preserving them is key to long-term success. That means choosing control options that knock down pests without wiping out the good guys.
Practical tips for Aussie growers:
- Scout early and often: Don’t wait for holes in leaves. Check the undersides for eggs and larvae.
- Target the right stage: Intervene when pests are small and before populations peak.
- Think coverage: Brassica leaves can curl and overlap, so ensure your spray penetrates to the underside
- Plan for rain: Use products that are rainfast within a couple of hours to avoid re-sprays.
Healthy brassicas mean more feed, better animal performance, and a stronger return on investment. By focusing on timely, targeted pest control (such as Exirel® Insecticide) and working with nature, you can keep your crop thriving and your livestock well-fed.
This article was written by FMC Australasia Pty Ltd, for Seasons.
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