With oilseed rape presenting growers with a range of establishment, pest and rotational challenges, many farmers are looking at alternative break crops that can deliver value while fitting their individual farming systems.
From linseed and oats to peas and winter beans, COPE offers a choice of crops, varieties and contract options, backed by expert agronomy advice and established end markets.
The right break crop will depend on your rotation, soil type, drilling window, input strategy and target market. Here’s a look at some of the options available from COPE.
Linseed – low input with premium market opportunities
Linseed can provide an attractive alternative break crop, offering a relatively low-input option alongside opportunities to target premium markets.
COPE offers contracts for winter and spring linseed, with established markets spanning human consumption, pet food, export and specialist markets. Growers can also benefit from agronomy support throughout the crop.
For growers looking to add flexibility and value to their rotation, linseed is well worth considering.
Find out more about COPE’s linseed contracts →
Oats – flexibility from field to market
Oats can offer a versatile break crop, with different markets and contract options available depending on the crop and end use.
COPE offers spring and winter oat varieties, with opportunities across milling, gluten-free and naked oat markets. Its Flexi Oat contracts give growers a choice of marketing options, helping them select an approach that fits their farm and appetite for market exposure.
With the right variety and agronomy, oats can be a valuable part of a diverse rotation.
Explore COPE’s Flexi Oat contracts →
Peas – a flexible break crop with established markets
Peas can bring both rotational and market benefits, with options available for growers targeting different end uses.
COPE offers a range of pea varieties covering Large Blue, Maple, Marrowfat and feed markets, as well as options for both organic and conventional production.
The choice of variety is key, particularly when considering the intended end market, and COPE can provide advice on selecting the right option for your farm.
Discover COPE’s pea varieties and markets →
Winter beans – take a closer look at Vespa
For growers considering winter beans, Vespa provides another option for the break crop slot.
With strong agronomic characteristics and market potential, Vespa can offer a useful combination of performance and rotational value.
COPE can support growers with variety selection, agronomy advice and access to established markets, helping to make the most of the crop.
Find out more about Vespa →
Find the right break crop for your farm
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a break crop. The best option will depend on your rotation, soil, drilling opportunities, input strategy and target market.
That’s where COPE can help.
With a choice of linseed, oats, peas and winter beans, alongside expert agronomy advice, flexible contract options and established end markets, COPE gives growers the choice to select a break crop that works for their individual farm.