Harvest
First harvest the varieties that are likely to shed or lodge. Delaying harvest can lead to significant lodging and shedding due to crop movement in the wind. Care must be taken when harvesting milling varieties to minimise the amount of dehulled grains. Consider management of stubble for the succeeding crop (straw length and spreading) and collection of grass seeds to reduce weeds in the next year. Hull-less oat varieties are susceptible to harvest damage adjustment to the harvest is therefore critical.
For more information see Oats: harvesting, swathing and grain storage.
Hay crops
Choose a suitable variety for the anticipated market. Increase seed and nitrogen fertiliser rates by at least 20% above those for a grain crop. Pay particular attention to soil test results for potassium if repeated hay crops are taken from the same paddock. There are specific requirements for the export markets that are different to usual on-farm needs. These include earlier cutting times, green hay colour, low moisture content, freedom from weeds, and thin-strawed varieties. At all stages of the hay crop growers should check exporters specific requirements if they are interested in this market.