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 excellent quality and expected Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD) of 70 and above should be the target.
It seems excellent growth is taking place in fields with high nutrient status; Index 3 in Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) and pH over 6.3, with good grass varieties in the sward.
With all this, arises the ideal time to reseed some of the poorer performing fields, but not without due consideration. In order for a reseed to return maximum benefit, soil fertility must be correct. According to Teagasc, the majority of soils in Ireland are below optimum levels for pH (6.3), P and K (Index 3). This sub-optimal soil fertility can lead to a reduction in output volumes and profitability, should action not be taken.
Following the results of a soil test, appropriate action must be taken with regards to the application of P, K and lime.
When choosing a suitable fertiliser compound, Target Fertilisers recommend a High P and K compound. P & K are essential for providing energy and encouraging vigorous root development of the young seedling after germination. The application of products such as 10:10:20 or 12-8-20+S is recommended by Target Fertilisers to achieve this development.
For further recommendations, see our fertiliser recommendation table below:
| NPK(S) Cereals | N | P | K | S | B | Mg | Ca | ||
| 10-10-20 | 10 | 10 | 20 | ||||||
| 10-3-28 + S | 10 | 3 | 28 | 3 | |||||
| 10-5-25 + S | 10 | 5 | 25 | 3 | |||||
| 10-7-25 + S | 10 | 7 | 25 | 3 | |||||
| 10-8-20 + S | 10 | 8 | 25 | 2.5 | |||||
| 10-8-25 + S | 10 | 3 | 25 | 2.5 | |||||
| 11-7-23 + S | 11 | 7 | 23 | 3 | |||||
| 12-8-20 + S | 12 | 8 | 20 | 3 | |||||
| 13-6-20 + S | 13 | 6 | 20 | 3 | |||||
| 14-5-20 + S | 14 | 5 | 20 | 3 | |||||
| 14-7-14 + S | 14 | 7 | 14 | 3 | |||||
| 15-10-10 + S | 15 | 10 | 10 | 3 | |||||
| 15-3-20 + S | 15 | 3 | 20 | 3 | |||||
| 16-7-14 + S | 16 | 7 | 14 | 3 | |||||
| 18-4-12 + S | 18 | 4 | 12 | 3 | |||||
| 18-6-12 +/- S | 18 | 6 | 12 | 3 | |||||
| 19-0-15 + S | 19 | 0 | 15 | 3 | |||||
Preparing for the autumn grazing wedge
Maintaining Nitrogen (N) supply is essential for continued grass growth. At Target Fertilisers, the advice is to apply N at the rate of one unit per day, as we will soon require N for grass growth to build up the autumn grazing wedge. It is important to remember that there are just 4 weeks until the chemical fertiliser application period closes on September 15th. Where Sulphur (S) is required, we recommend using SuperCAN (27N 4S). In the case where soil fertility is low, it is advisable to use an NPK compound and we recommend using Target Fertilisers’ 18-6-12 +/- S.
In order to ensure that you are compliant with the Nitrate Regulations, check your latest DAFM nitrate statement or contact your advisor.
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