Question 1

What is the difference between high and low dry matter fodder beet varieties, and which suits my livestock?

Accepted Answer

Low dry matter fodder beet varieties (below 15% DM) tend to produce larger roots with higher water content, making them particularly palatable and easy for livestock to consume in situ. High dry matter types (above 18% DM) produce smaller, denser roots with greater energy concentration per kilogram, better suited to lifting, clamping and rationed feeding to high-yielding dairy or beef cattle. Your feeding system and livestock class should guide variety selection.

Question 2

How should fodder beet be introduced into cattle or sheep diets to avoid digestive problems?

Accepted Answer

Fodder beet should be introduced gradually into livestock diets over a minimum of two to three weeks to allow the rumen microbiome to adapt to its high sugar content. Feeding alongside adequate fibre and limiting daily intake in the early transition period helps reduce the risk of acidosis and other digestive upsets. Our technical team can provide specific transition feeding guidance for your livestock system.

Question 3

What establishment requirements should farmers consider when drilling fodder beet?

Accepted Answer

Fodder beet requires a well-prepared, firm seedbed with good moisture contact for even germination. It is typically drilled from mid-April to mid-May when soil temperatures have reached at least 6–8°C. Precision drilling at the correct seed spacing is essential to achieve the target plant population for maximum root yield. Weed control in the early post-emergence stage is critical given the crop's slow initial development.

Question 4

Can fodder beet be successfully grazed in situ or does it need to be lifted?

Accepted Answer

Both approaches are used by UK livestock farmers. In situ grazing works well on free-draining soils and avoids the cost and time of mechanical lifting. However, heavy soils or wet winter conditions can result in excessive poaching, damaging soil structure and wasting crop. On heavier soils or in high rainfall areas, lifting and clamping typically offers more reliable access and better control of daily livestock intake.

Fodder beet

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Cagnotte

Cariko

Jamon

Lempa

Monro

Viridis

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