Barsica rapeseed (Brassica napus) is a cool-season broadleaf forage crop, prized for its rapid growth and flexibility across grazing schedules. Whether sown in early spring or late summer, it matures fast and supports single or multiple grazings, delivering top-tier nutrition for livestock throughout summer, autumn, or winter. It’s also excellent for building healthy soil.
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Delivers Dense Nutrition: Higher in protein and dry matter than turnips, Barsica rapeseed helps boost livestock energy intake. Its leafy, palatable growth works well for direct grazing — whether sown as a pure stand or part of a forage mix.
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Improves Grazing Efficiency: With fast regrowth and good resilience, Barsica suits rotational grazing and may allow multiple grazings per season.
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Supports Soil Health: While feeding your herd, Barsica also supports your soil. Its deep taproot helps lift nutrients and break shallow compaction, improving tilth and promoting better water infiltration for any subsequent crops.
Type: Broadleaf/Forage
Season: Cool Season
Seeding and Growth
Precision: Not recommended
Drilled: 3 lb/A, 1/4" to 1/2" deep
Broadcast: 4 lb/A
Aerial: 5 lb/A
Dates: Winter or Summer feed
Frequently Asked Questions: Barsica Rapeseed
When should I plant Barsica rapeseed for the best results?
For best results, sow Barsica rapeseed between early spring and late summer, depending on your grazing goals. Plant in spring for summer feed, or later for autumn and winter grazing. This cool-season forage establishes quickly and thrives in well-drained, moisture-retentive soils.
Can I graze Barsica rapeseed more than once?
If managed well, Barsica can be grazed more than once per season to maximize forage yield. It regrows quickly and responds well to rotational grazing, provided livestock are moved before the crop is overgrazed or trampled. Allowing time for recovery between grazings can also help.
Can I mix Barsica rapeseed with other forage crops?
Barsica rapeseed blends well with other forages, as long as seeding rates are adjusted to give each species room to establish. This forage crop is commonly mixed with grasses or legumes to diversify nutrition, extend grazing windows, and support soil health.
Can I buy Barisca rapeseed in bulk?
At Sustain Seed + Soil, we offer Barsica rapeseed by Barenbrug in 25 lb or 45 lb bags. Ideal for feeding livestock or improving soil health, this versatile forage crop is ready to work your fields. While often sown as a pure stand, it can also be mixed in combination with other forages.
