Soil sampling and analysis during the closed period
The closed period for the application of chemical Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) began on September 15th and will continue until January 12th for Zone A, which includes counties in the south and east of the country. There are no restrictions on Potassium (K)...
Planning your chemical fertiliser application prior to the closing period
The closing period for the application of chemical fertilisers is 15th September 2019, as set out under the Nitrates Directive and remains enforced in the south east until 12th January. Farmers should make every effort to spread over the coming...
Approaching soil fertility post autumn reseeding
Grass growth is presently averaging 65kg/ha/day across the country and it is likely that winter fodder will be in plentiful supply, as many farms are currently harvesting second and third cuts. Baling surplus grass has resulted in a good build up of silage stocks with...
Mid-Season Grass Management
With the middle of the grazing season fast approaching, farmers should now aim to maximise grass growth during the long summer days of July. Post grazing application Grass growth rates have steadily increased in the last number of weeks and it is an ideal...
Fertiliser options for second cut silage
When determining a slurry and fertiliser regime for second cut remember you must know your offtakes or silage crop requirement. It is best to get your advice from your local advisor if you are not sure of this. Benefits of Adding Sulphur To meet the silage crop NPK...
Slurry Evaluation for Second Cut Silage
This year, first cut silage has been harvested early especially on ungrazed fields which are giving very good yields. Good weather and very little rainfall have allowed an adequate wilting time of more than 24 hours for grass after mowing. This will inevitably mean...
Planning for a successful reseeding period
Following last year’s drought, most reseeding intentions were cast aside due to grass shortages. Now is an appropriate time to implement reseeding plans, placing particular focus on fields that have little or no rye grasses in the sward. Choose a...
Ensure grass is fully utilised during peak growth season
Grass is the cheapest form of animal feed for both milk and beef production, and it is essential it is utilised to its full potential during the growing season. May is usually the month of peak grass growth, therefore farmers should use good grassland management...
Slurry and Fertiliser for Silage
Following on from the growing problems associated with 2018, great care and attention must be paid to your silage programme. Your most important crop for Winter 2019 is your first cut silage in terms of quantity and quality. You may also need to build your silage...