Don’t let the late spring trip up your grazing plan

MONITOR the grass closely now or risk the growth getting out of hand before you've had a chance to introduce your grazing plan, warns Piers Badnell of DairyCo.

Because of the late spring many farmers are seeing low grass cover at present, but the recent burst of milder weather, combined with rain across many parts of the country will really boost grass growth, so there's a risk that unless you keep a close eye, it could really get out of hand, explains Piers.

The first grazing residuals of the season are critical, as this sets how low the cows will graze for the rest of the season.  If the residual is too high, dead and stem material build up in the sward, reducing the quality and palatability, thus lowering future milk production potential.  So a grazing residual of 1500kg DM/ha is very important. 

“If this is not possible from grazing, that residual can be achieved by topping with a mower, or by leaving the poor residual to re-grow but taking out that growth for silage. You could also try leaving it for a couple of weeks to freshen up before putting in youngstock, which can be grazed much harder to achieve a better residual."

Visit www.dairyco.org.uk to read about DairyCo’s grass and grazing analysis, a study of grass growth including DM, ME, and crude protein on ten farms across Great Britain chosen as examples of excellent grassland management.

For further information on grassland management order the DairyCo grass+ programme by calling 02476 478695 or emailing publications@dairyco.org.uk.  The programme can also be downloaded from www.dairyco.org.uk.

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