Technical Bulletin No. 14 – 09.10.25

In This Edition:

Germination testing for seed
Sowing Windows
Group 14 spikes
Lambing
BCG Research Update – New project looking at slugs

• Monitoring, seed germination and emergence remain the top priorities for most growers across western Victoria.
• Growers are assessing plant densities of any emerged crops, particularly canola, and adjusting their yield potential expectations.
• After watering germination test areas, some Wimmera growers have elected to re-sow some canola paddocks because less than 5plants/m² could be found.
• With some rain on the forecast this weekend, growers are taking a positive and prepared approach to potential next steps for crop management, particularly regarding inputs for nutrition, pest and weed control.
• Lamb prices are expected to remain strong through spring.

• Growers are making proactive management decisions to give their 2025 season the best possible start.
• Dry sowing of vetch, oaten hay and lupin has commenced in the Mallee, North Central and Wimmera.
• Minimal summer rain has reduced the need for summer weed control.
• Long season varieties are being dropped from cropping plans in favour of shorter season options.