Organic TapMaster Daikon Radish

BRASSICAS

Brassica is a genus of plants in the mustard (Brassicaceae) plant family, also known as cruciferous cole crops.  More than 30 wild species and hybrids are in cultivation, plus numerous cultivars and hybrids of cultivated origin.  Almost all parts of cultivated species contain nutritional value, including the root, stems, leaves, flowers, buds, and seeds.  They provide high amounts of Vitamin C and soluble fiber.

Best uses: Cover crop and fall grazing for livestock.  All brassicas have highly digestible cell walls, very high protein levels, and are very succulent.  Excellent for grazing and cover cropping (typically as part of a mix.)  High dry matter production both above and below ground builds organic matter in the soil.  Also good for deer food plots due to their high palatability, frost-tolerance, and availability in the fall.  Use for fall grazing cattle, sheep, hogs, and in food plots.

Adaptation: Brassica plants require well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a PH between 5.5 and 6.5.

Grazing: Graze Brassicas carefully; too much intake can cause health problems ins cattle.  Mixing with grass improves ruminant digestion and utilization.  Allow livestock time to adjust to a change in diet when beginning grazing.

RADISH

• Vigorous taproot accumulates leachable nutrients, protects soil, improves filtration, and large taproot may alleviate soil compaction.
• Rapid establishment suppresses weeds
• Radish establishes quicker than legumes, but less rapidly than annual grasses
• Provides good groundcover and controls weeds through dense canopy
• Adapted to most soil types
• Plants break down completely by spring in the Upper Midwest; no need for fall or spring tillage
• Non-bolting if planted late summer to early fall
• Will likely winterkill in Upper Midwest

Best use: Cover crops and food plot plantings.  Can be used for grazing when mixed with other brassicas or grasses.

Management: Ready to graze in mixed stand 45-60 days

Planting date: Mid August – September