Oilseed Rape

At Lower Blakemere Farm, oilseed rape is an important component of our crop rotation, primarily grown for seed. This crop offers numerous agricultural and economic benefits.

Bee Health and Honey Production
Our farm maintains around 12 beehives, and oilseed rape provides essential early-season nectar. This supports strong bee populations and enhances pollination across our farm, contributing to the production of high-quality honey.

Soil and Crop Management
Oilseed rape improves soil health by preventing compaction with its deep roots. It serves as a break crop, disrupting the pest and disease cycles of cereals, which minimises our need for chemical treatments.

Economic and Production Benefits
Growing oilseed rape for seed yields a higher market price due to the need for purity in seed production—contamination is a risk with standard cultivation methods. This focus on purity ensures that our seeds meet high standards, making them more valuable.

Uses of Oilseed Rape
Oilseed rape oil is widely used in cooking oils and as an ingredient in margarines. Its by-products, like rape meal, serve as high-protein animal feed. The oil is also used in the production of biodiesel, adding to its economic value.
We employ buffer zones to manage herbicide runoff and adhere to strict environmental regulations to sustain the health of our land and water. This crop’s role in our rotation helps maintain a balance.