From the Ground Up, Issue 83

Between 2005 and 2020 FAR conducted 38 trials investigating tillage establishment methods for maize production. Most were analysed at the individual site/trial level. Maize update 93 discusses insights gained from aggregating all of this trial data. It includes information on the effects of crop establishment methods on established plant populations, maize yields and, where available, associated gross margins.

This report discusses the effects of maize establishment methods on established plant populations, maize yields, and associated gross margins. It is based on the findings of 38 FAR maize tillage and establishment trials between 2005 and 2020.

Start checking maize crop maturity about three weeks prior to when you think you’ll be starting your silage harvest. Good quality maize silage is best made when whole plant dry matter is between 30-40%

This is the handout from a field day hosted by the Stobie family, Gordonton, Waikato on 4 February 2026.

Stem rust (Puccinia graminis subsp. graminicola) is the most damaging of the ryegrass diseases. This update discusses how different fungicide programmes and timings affect seed yield. It compares early versus late applications and offers practical advice to help growers improve rust control and maximise returns.

This Herbage Update defines a more accurate harvest window for perennial ryegrass seed crops. Read more here.

Welcome to the revised 2025 version of  The drying and storage of grain and herbage seed, first published in 1999. The book comprises six chapters that cover grain characteristics and their reaction to climate, the importance of seed moisture, the drying system, the storage environment, storage pests and their control, and construction considerations. These have been edited and updated by FAR staff and independent experts from the original chapters written by the late Murray Hill.

A velvetleaf find in a paddock that has been ‘clean’ for seven years, is a clear reminder of how long this weed’s seed will remain viable.

Between January and May 2025, FAR and harvester specialists conducted a comprehensive study to quantify the grain and seed left in the paddock by New Zealand growers and identify opportunities to optimise harvester performance. 

This AIMI survey of maize growers provides details of the 2025 New Zealand maize grain and silage harvest, along with sowing intentions for the coming year.