As the lambing and calving seasons draw closer, the importance of having an uninterrupted supply of feed increases.
The arrival of the next generation of stock often seems to be followed by the onset of unseasonably cold, wet weather. Just when it’s most needed, grass growth slows and feed shortages can loom large. However, early planning can reduce the impact of feed deficits.
‘Farmers need to construct a feed budget to see them through this time,’ says Paul Johnston, Central South Island Area Sales Manager for Ballance Agri-Nutrients.
‘By anticipating the possibility of a feed shortage weeks in advance, you can give yourself the opportunity to do something about it.’
If the soil temperature is less than 5 degrees Celsius, then it’s going to be too cold for grass to grow, so supplementary feed may be needed. Any warmer, though, and nitrogen can be used to promote pasture growth.
‘The rule of thumb that says you get a ten to one pasture response to nitrogen does not always apply,’ notes Paul. ‘You may get more or less and farmers need to allow for this in their feed budget.
‘And in cool conditions, it will take longer to see a response because the pasture growth rate is slower. You can’t put on nitrogen and expect to have lush grass in two weeks’ time. That’s why advance planning is so important – you need to be able to identify the potential for a problem, not wait until the problem actually occurs.’
Farmers can apply a mix of nutrients at this time to get the best results.
‘When applying the nitrogen you can look at using products such as DAP, N Rich urea and N Rich Ammo to ensure strong growth,’ say Paul.
‘Ballance is well placed to assist you in nutrient management. We can help you to decide on what nutrients will best suit your conditions and your budget.’
Farmers in the region who would like further information on spring nitrogen products can phone their local Ballance Technical Sales Representative on 0800 222 090.
25 August 2010
