On Hein Mulke’s farm outside Douglas in the Northern Cape, a beautiful oatsland is a testament to the power of Limagrain Field Seeds’ Saddle white oats.

Riaan van Lill, agricultural expert for Limagrain Field Seeds, says the well-drained red apedal soil contributes to the success of the oats lands.

“If you have the right soil and apply the right irrigation, your oats could look like this.” Saddle can exhibit its full potential on this healthy soil.

This Saddle was planted on 23 May and cut in mid-October, approximately five months after planting. The harvest was taken at the milk-to-soft dough stage, which offers an optimal balance between biomass and nutrition. The land delivered incredible biomass, proof of the cultivar’s powerful growth and adaptability. The average hay yield of this planting was 13,5 t/ha over 30 ha

After approximately five months, the oats stands high and ready to be harvested.

Dirk Coetzee, portfolio manager for grazing at Limagrain Field Seeds, describes Saddle as a cultivar farmers can trust. “It received 120 kg of nitrogen and was planted at 43 kg per hectare. It’s noticeable that no fertiliser was sprayed. Saddle’s built-in resistance against fungal diseases and excellent lodging resistance make it a reliable choice.

Saddle is suitable for local conditions. It offers quick establishment, strong growth, and consistent yields. For farmers, that doesn’t just mean a beautiful land but also increased profitability and a reliable source of livestock feed.

Saddle’s characteristics include:

  • High biomass production of good feed quality and digestibility.
  • Good resistance to fungal diseases that decreases the need for chemicals
  • Strong standing ability that inhibits harvest losses
  • Reliable performance under local irrigation and soil conditions.

The beautiful red apedal soil in which the oats grow.

For Limagrain Field Seeds, Saddle is more than just a seed; it’s an investment in sustainable agriculture.

When every season counts, farmers need cultivars they can depend on. On the farm, Limagrain Field Seeds’ Saddle proves that with the correct soil, good management, and proven genetics, farmers can grow their crops with self-confidence.

To learn more about the various crops and cultivars Limagrain Field Seeds has available or to contact one of their crop advisors, kindly visit their website at www.lgseeds.co.za