INSIDE THIS ISSUE Fertiliser Requirements And Silage Quality Overseeding - ProNitro - Dairygold Agri Business
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
PAGE Fertiliser Requirements
10 And Silage Quality
PAGE Overseeding - ProNitro
16
PAGE Grass Matters
21
PAGE Introducing Kaf Gro - Rumi Force
32
ISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021 www.dairygoldagri.ie
Welcome to the April edition of
MILK MATTERS
DAIRYGOLD’S DAIRY ADVISORY BULLETIN
CONTENTS
Dear Milk Matters Reader, Nutrition Matters ................................. 03
This month’s Nutrition Matters Do You Know What’s In Your
examines how correct nutrition Drinking Water .................................... 06
can positively influence fertility
performance. The level of concentrate LeanFarm............................................... 07
feeding required is a function of the Fertiliser Requirements
amount of grass your cows are eating And Silage Quality............................... 10
and their milk yields. Your bulk tank
will let you know how good a job your Why Should I Reseed.......................... 11
doing. Monitor milk protein %, milk fat
% and their relationship to access the energy status of your Dairygold Mixes 2021.......................... 14
herd. Overseeding - ProNitro....................... 16
As an industry we are making wonderful strides forward. Progressive New BPS Eligibility
Our cow’s genetic potential is improving, our soil fertility is
Rules for Water Protection Actions. 17
improving, we are growing more grass and supplying more
milk solids per cow than ever. But, one important aspect which Dairygold / Teagasc
has not improved is the quality of silage we are making year on Joint Programme................................. 19
year. A spring calving herd needs 65% + of its silage to be 70+
DMD. On pages 5-8 we outline what impacts silage quality. Fertiliser Matters................................. 20
Grazing utilisation is a new trait available on grass seeds in Grass Matters....................................... 21
2021. At its simplest it’s a measure of how well your cows are
potentially going to graze a variety. A variety should not be Dairy Farming On Difficult
judged on it alone. A varieties overall PPI is derived from its Heavy Land.......................................... 23
seasonal growth pattern, its silage potential, its quality and
Fertility & Breeding............................. 24
persistency. Combining both will gives you great insight into
how different grass seed mixes will perform at farm level. CHFC Matters....................................... 29
Dairygolds 2021 Gold Assure Grass Seed Range is available
on pages 14-15. AHI Notes............................................... 30
With the wet February and March gone by, Grass Matters looks Daisy at 8 Weeks................................... 31
at managing grass in the month of April. When should you start
the 2nd round of grazing? How to adjust your fertiliser plans. Introducing Kaf Gro - Rumi Force.... 32
The aim is to have c. 90 units applied by the 1st of May. Should
you be using straight N or should you apply some P&K now?
In Fertility and Breeding Matters, Doreen Corridan has an
in depth look at how to manage the breeding season. To
achieve a 90%, 6 week incalf rate you need to maximise
maiden heifer and cow fertility performance. Doreen To contact the editor of
lays out a plan for this.
Yours Sincerely, MILK
Liam Stack M.Agr.Sc
MATTERS
RUMINANT TECHNICAL MANAGER,
email: lstack@dairygold.ie
DAIRYGOLD AGRIBUSINESS
2 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
NUTRITION MATTERS
By LIAM STACK, M.Agr.Sc, Ruminant Technical Manager
As cows approach the breeding season they need to b. Put these cows on once a day milking while holding
be on a rising plane of nutrition. concentrate feeding levels. This will negatively
affect milk yield while improving BSC
Signs that your cows are NOT on a rising plane of
nutrition 5. Be-wary that late calving cows overall intake will
- Low milk proteins be nowhere near that of your cows that calved in
- A milk butterfat to protein ratio of greater than 1.4:1 the first few week of the season. These cows will
- Excessive BCS loss: a body condition score loss of be eating lower levels of grass and will need extra
greater than 0.5 in the 8 weeks after calving will concentrates to ensure their BSC stays in check.
lower your conception rates
Concentrates required: Grass + concentrates
Milk Yield (kg)
18 24 28 32
12 kg DM Grass 2 5 6.5 8.5
14 kg DM Grass 1.5* 2.5 4.5 6.5
16 kg DM Grass 1.5* 1.5* 2.5 4
17 kg DM Grass 1.5* 1.5* 1.5* 3
Milk Solids (kg)
Meeting your cow’s energy demand? 1.25 1.7 2 2.25
1. Grazed grass is the most economical way to feed a 12 kg DM Grass 2 5 6.5 8.5
cow. You must maximise grass intake.
14 kg DM Grass 1.5* 2.5 4.5 6.5
2. Feed an appropriate level of concentrates based on 16 kg DM Grass 1.5* 1.5* 2.5 4
how much grass your cows are consuming and your
17 kg DM Grass 1.5* 1.5* 1.5* 3
herds milk yield
*grass alone does not meet a cow’s daily requirement for calcium, phosphorus,
magnesium, zinc, iodine and selenium. Even though a cow’s energy demand might
3. Do not over-estimate grass intakes. Over estimating not require concentrates, feeding 1.5kg of concentrates at grass is the cheapest and
most effective method of supplying these minerals.
grass intake by 1kg dry matter is the same as lower
concentrate feeding rate by 1kg daily
BE-WARY OF OVER ESTIMATING
4. If your cows current BCS is less than 2.75 you can THE VOLUMES OF GRASS YOUR
a. Add 1 kg to feeding rates recommended in the COWS ARE CONSUMING.
below table
Milk yield Milk solids Body condition Conception GHG Lameness
score Rate Emission
3
But a general rule of thumb is:
What protein nut should I get?
- Inside
The protein on silage
content of yourorconcentrate
silage + aisfew hours
of much grazing
lower – 18% than how much of
consequence
- Out by you
the concentrate dayare
(6-10 hours grazing)– 16%
feeding.
- Out full time - 14%
Mineral
But Nutrition:
a general rule of thumb is: leaf to stem ratio and therefore a lower magnesium
- Inside on silage or silage + a few hours grazing – 18%
Grass
Mineral does not meet your cow’s Phosphorus, Calcium,
Nutrition:
- Out by day (6-10 hours grazing)– 16%
content.
On both silage and grass diets cows need mineral supplementation.
Selenium,
- Out fullIodine, Zinc requirements. Cows also need a
time - 14%
daily intakeasofa cal
Grass mag to prevent grass tetany. 4.
High grass potassium decreases magnesium
Mineralalone
Nutrition: mineral source for daily cows
On both silage and grass diets cows need mineral supplementation. absorption,
Grass alone as a mineral source for daily cows
5.
High grass Nitrogen. High levels of ammonia
breakdown in the rumen decreases magnesium
absorption
6.
Low sodium (Na) content decreases magnesium
absorption
7.
Milk yield. Higher yielding cows need more daily
magnesium
Maiden Heifers:
Dietary deficiencies
Dietary deficiencies of copper,
of copper, selenium
selenium and are
and iodine iodine are
linked to:linked to:
Dietary deficiencies of copper, selenium and iodine are
linked to:
- poor fertility,
- cystic ovaries,
- anoestrous,
- irregular or supressed oestrus
- and early embryonic death.
Grass Tetany:
Grass tetany is caused by a lack of magnesium (Mg)
absorption. Grass tetany affects muscle function, hence
the trembling/twitching/trashing. Death is caused by
the heart (a muscle) giving up.
Avoid holding back light heifers, breed them and work
Factors causing grass tetany: with them throughout the year to maximising weight
1. Not feeding magnesium: Magnesium is not stored by gain and allow them to catch up. See Dorrens article
the cow. Daily supplementation is required. on pages 22-26 for advise for your heifers breeding
season.
2.
Anything that affects intake: Bad weather, stress,
LWG CURRENT GRASS IN CONCENTRATES
poor grass covers, cows in heat
NEEDED LW DIET REQUIRED (kg)
3. Decreased rumen function on Plentiful 0kg
target
Magnesium is absorbed by the cow in the rumen. Lush 1kg Scarce 1kg
highly digestible grass passes through the rumen
quicker than lower digestibility forages. The cow has Below Plentiful 2kg
less of a chance to absorb the magnesium. Magnesium Target
is stored in the grasses stem. Lush covers have a higher
Scarce 3-4kg
4 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
DON’T COMPROMISE
ON PERFORMANCE THIS SPRING
Feed quality in the first 12 weeks of lactation is critical to ensuring
that your cows meet their maximum potential. PostCalver Gold
is formulated to support cows at grass in early lactation.
NO COMPROMISE
ON BODY CONDITION FERTILITY
SCORE
MILK
LAMENESS
SOLIDS
Ensure that your cows reach their potential this season
and next by feeding PostCalver Gold.
www.dairygoldagri.ie
Please contact your local ASM, our Inside
Sales Team or Lombardstown Mill on
022-47275 to order.
5
DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN
YOUR DRINKING WATER?
By BRENDAN HALLAHAN,
Do you know what’s in your drinking water?
Dairygold Analytical Laboratory
By Brendan Hallahan, Dairygold Analytical Laboratory
With many of us spending Cadmium is a human carcinogen. The EU drink water
more time at home than limit for Cadmium is 5µg/L. Irish drinking water has an
usual, our family’s health and excellent track record in Cadmium with only a single,
our own health has never recent isolated incidence of groundwater showing a
been more important. Crucial level above the EU limit.
to our health is water. Safe
drinking water is essential for Lead
maintaining a clear body and Lead is a so-called “heavy metal” that can cause serious
mind. However, at different health issues. Even low levels can be dangerous
times and in different because “heavy metals” can bioaccumulate in the
locations drinking water
With many of us spending more time at home than usual, our family’s health and our own
human body. Lead poisoning in adults can manifest as
across the country has been found to be unacceptable
health has never been more important. Crucial to our health is water. Safe drinking water is
essential for maintaining a clear body and mind. However, at different times and in different
joint pain, kidney issues, and nervous system failure.
for human consumption. The Food Safety Authority of The biggest risk group, however, are babies in the
locations drinking water across the country has been found to be unacceptable for human
consumption. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) recently published a comprehensive
Ireland (FSAI) recently published a comprehensive womb, infants and young children. High exposure to
summary of hazardous metals we are all exposed to in our diet. In drinking water, Aluminium,
summary of hazardous metals we are all exposed Lead from a young age can cause serious physical
to in our diet. In drinking water, Aluminium, Arsenic, and mental problems. Indeed, there is a fascinating
Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury were considered from hypothesis that exposure to Lead from a young
data collected by the Environmental Protection age makes an individual more violent and prone to
Agency (EPA). Below you will find a summary of the aggressive behaviour. Old houses in Ireland may be
FSAI report. Dairygold’s Analytical Services Laboratory using outdated Lead pipes, which could be slowly
can test your drinking water for all these toxic metals, degrading into the water supply. The EU drinking water
including others not addressed in the FSAI report. limit for Lead is 10µg/L. 1.3% of Irish drinking water
supplies have been found to exceed the EU limit.
Aluminium
At its worst, Aluminium toxicity has been implicated Mercury
in Alzheimer’s disease and anaemia. The EU drinking Exposure to Mercury in humans is associated with
water limit for Aluminium is 200µg/L. 1.2% of Irish irritability, chronic fatigue, memory loss, depression,
groundwater has been found to exceed this limit. and decreases in fertility rate. The EU drinking water
Thankfully, not all groundwater is used for drinking limit for Mercury is 1µg/L. Irish drinking water has an
water. excellent track record in Mercury with only a single,
recent isolated incidence of groundwater showing a
Arsenic level above the EU limit.
Arsenic is a human carcinogen and is linked to
cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The EU drinking Ask yourself, do you know what’s in your drinking
water limit for Arsenic is 10µg/L. The only recorded water? The Analytical Services Laboratory can provide
instances of dangerously high Arsenic levels in you with a comprehensive list of 17 elements in your
drinking water in Ireland have come from private drinking water plus the relevant EU drinking water limit
wells. No public drinking water supply has exceeded for that element.
the EU limit.
Please contact Dairygold Analytical Laboratory on
Cadmium 022 47275 for more information
6 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
FARMER PROFILE: Jerome and Brian Desmond, Garryhesta, Ovens, Co. Cork
The Desmond family milk 140 Spring calving cows at
their farm in Garryhesta, Ovens, Co. Cork.
Jerome and family were members of the Leanfarm
pilot group and subsequently joined the Leanfarm
Go-To Programme in 2018 hosting waste walks and
implementing changes to save time effort and money.
We got involved in the Lean Farm Programme to help identify ways of saving time and reducing waste. The
busiest period on the farm is early Spring when 90% of the calving occurs from late January to early March.
From the Lean Farm training, we have learned the importance of being well prepared and organised by
having a good written routine in place that everyone on the farm understands and having all items placed
at point of use.
Calving takes place in a loose
shed which has a single pen
fitted with a restraining gate
to facilitate any cow that may
require assistance. Cows within
a few days of calving are moved
into this shed which can hold up
to 16 cows at any one time. All
items required for calving are 1 2
kept at point of use. A simple
shelf contains iodine, arm length
gloves, calving ropes etc (photo 1). Soon after a calf is born the navel is disinfected with iodine and moved
to the nearby calf shed (photo 2) which
can house 100 calves. All calves receive
four litres of colostrum within two hours of
birth.
A white board is used to record details of
new-born calves or any issues with calf
health which is updated daily (photo 3). All
pens are numbered, so any issue with a 3
calf can easily be identified and recorded.
7
All heifer calves are retained on the farm and kept in groups of ten. Bull calves are grouped in pens close
to the door to facilitate ease of collection. Calves are fed with whole milk which is transported from the
milking parlour using two 160 litre milk carts. The milk cart is filled from the diversion lines in the milking
parlour (photo 4). As soon as Cart 1 is full, feeding can begin (picture 5), and Cart 2 collects the remaining
milk required. Both Carts are fitted with a pump and a metre which ensures the correct amount of milk is
allocated to each group of calves. Our first milk Cart was purchased three years ago and to facilitate the
feeding of extra calves, a second cart was needed. The use of milk Carts has reduced the overall feeding
time by as much as 50%. In addition to this, there is no longer the need to carry milk in buckets which
eliminates all heavy lifting.
A water/milk heater is used to warm milk and heat water for washing feeding equipment (photos 6).
4 5 6
The breeding season will commence in late April on the Desmond farm. Detailed recordings are kept of
all events since calving. Any cow not seen in heat will be examined by the vet. On day one of breeding,
all cows are painted with Red tail paint and subsequently after AI, each cow is then painted with Green tail
paint. As the season progresses it makes it easier to identify cows not yet bred.
The target is to have as close as possible to 100% of heifers and cows served during the first 25 days of
breeding. Heifers graze in paddocks close to the yard. A vasectomised bull fitted with a chin ball is ran with
them.
Heifers are brought into the yard each morning and drafted out for breeding. After AI, heifers are transferred
to an out farm where a stock bull will run with them for a further 3 weeks. DIY is practised on the farm, cows
observed in the morning are served in the evening, cows observed in the evening are served the following
morning.
A drafting unit (photo 7) is used to separate cows for AI, cow numbers are entered
on the computer in the milking parlour prior to milking. This ensures that all cows
for AI are drafted to the AI pen.
The drafting unit has made the task of separating cows so simple. Prior to this the
person milking had to watch out for cows and separate them as they left the milking
parlour. This was sometimes difficult and meant a second person was needed in
the parlour. Now one person can milk and doesn’t have to leave the pit during 7
milking. Following AI, all details are recorded on our farm software programme.
Benefits Delivered on the Desmond Farm
✔ ime saved on repetive tasks
T
✔ Point of Use
✔ More Organised
✔ Reduced transport of goods
✔ Reduced movement and energy
✔ Improved job satisfaction
8 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
OPEN DRIVING
In addition to our
enhanced benefits and
preferential pricing, as a
WITH ZURICH FARM Dairygold member you
can now get full open
INSURANCE. driving.
TO FIND OUT MORE,
CONTACT YOUR
DEDICATED FARM
INSURANCE EXPERTS.
JP AHERNE
MUNSTER DAIRYGOLD
AREA
086 411 3797
MIKE O’DONOGHUE
WEST CORK/KERRY
086 831 2441
ZURICH.
FOR THOSE WHO TRULY LOVE.
Zurich Insurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms, conditions and standard underwriting criteria may apply. Open driving covers any driver aged 25-70 with a full
Irish licence. You can also contact our Farm Team by emailing farminsurance@zurich.ie or calling our office on 053 9157677 or 1890 800 171.
9
FERTILISER REQUIREMENTS Fertiliser Requirements and Silage Quality:
AND SILAGE QUALITY By Liam Stack
Your grass silage fields will start to head out in mid to late May (variety dependan
By LIAM STACK, the correct fertiliser programme for your soil indexes you will not have achieved t
bulk at this stage, you will delay cutting date and silage DMD will suffer.
M.Agr.Sc, Ruminant Technical Manager
Figure 1: Pattern of change in grass yield and digestibility
Your grass silage fields will start to head out in mid to late May
(Source: T eagasc, Grange Beef Research Centre)
(variety dependant). If you have not used the correct fertiliser 10 80
programme for your soil indexes you will not have achieved 9
the required crop bulk at this stage, you will delay cutting 8
70
DM yield (t/ha)
date and silage DMD will suffer. 7
DMD %
6
5
Silage DMD is the driver of your silage quality, it will influence 4
60
intakes, production and the level of concentrates you need to 3
feed across the winter. 2
01-May 08-May 15-May 22-May 29-May 05-Jun 12-Jun 19-Jun 26-Jun 03-Jul
50
Harvest date
Silage Digestibility vs Beef performance Silage DMD vs Concentrates required across the winter
Silage Digestibility Silage DMD is60
the DMD
driver of 65
yourDMD 70 itDMD
silage quality, 75intakes,
will influence DMD production
concentrates you need to feed across the winter.
DMD% 75 70 65 60 Dry cows (BCS 3) 1.5kg 1kg Restricted Restricted
Intake (kg/day) 9 8.3 7.6 7 Silage Silage
Silage Digestibility vs Beef performance
LWG (kg/day) 0.83 0.66 0.49 0.31 In-Calf Heifers 2.5kg Silage2kg Digestibility 1.5kg 1kg
DMD% 75 70 65 60
Ref: Teagasc Grange Weanlings Intake (kg/day)
1.5kg 9 8.31kg 7.6 70.5kg 0.5kg
LWG (kg/day) .83 .66 .49 .31
Ref: Teagasc Grange
First cut grass silage Nitrogen (N), Cost of winter feed €4,125 €2,888 €825 €619
Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) Feeding plan for 100 Dry cows, 20 weanling & incalf heifers
Silage DMD vs Concentrates required across the winter
requirements (5t/ha DM)
60 DMD 65 DMD 70 DMD 75 DMD
units/ac Dry cows (BCS 3) 1.5kg 1kg Restricted Silage Restricted Si
In-Calf Heifers 2.5kg 2kg 1.5kg 1kg
Index N P K S Weanlings 1.5kg 1kg 0.5kg 0.5kg
1 100 32 140 16 For older swards with lower yield potential reduce N, P, and K by 20u
N, 3u P and 20u K. Cost of winter feed €4,125 €2,888 €825 €619
2 100 24 120 16 Feeding plan for 100 Dry cows, 20 weanling & incalf heifers
3000 s/ac of slurry reduces N, P, and K by 18u N, 15u P and 90u K.
3 100 16 95 16
4 100 0 0 16
Fertiliser Programme to meet Slurry
silage requirements.
Nutrients Supplied
If you are not applying slurry to silage
Product Rate N P K S
grounds you should consider a product
like 16-5-20+S. Slurry 3000 gal/acre 15 18 90 Yes
No Slurry +
Nutrients
Total N Total P Total K
Supplied
Selenigrass + S 3.5 bags/acre 88 103 - 18 - 90 Yes
Product Rate N P K S
Sweetgrass + S 3.5 bags/acre 81 96 - 18 - 90 Yes
16-5-20 5 bags/acre 80 25 100 Yes
Silage Boost 4.5 bags/acre 95 9 45 Yes CAN + S 3 bags/acre 81 96 - 18 - 90 Yes
Selenicut 4.5 bags/acre 90 9 54 Yes PU 38%N + S 2 bags/acre 96 91 - 18 - 90 Yes
Please Contact your local Area Sales Manager or our Inside Sales Team on 022 31644 for more information
10 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
WHY SHOULD I RESEED?
By LIAM STACK,
M.Agr.Sc, Ruminant Technical Manager
Achieving high levels of grass production and animal
KEY POINT: Swards with a low
performance from swards which do not have a high content of Perennial Ryegrass (PRG)
proportion of perennial ryegrass is very difficult. are reducing your profit by €300/
ha (€120/acre) due to reduced dry
1. L ow perennial ryegrass swards grow less grass, matter (DM) production alone.
especially in the spring when grass is of most
economic value to your enterprise. Spring grass
Why shouldgrowth
I Reseed? accounts for c.15% of the PPI value of
Feeding your reseed:
Reseeding costsvariety.
a c. € 750/Ha.Each extra
Reseeded tonne
swards should last of grass
8 -10+ years ondry matter
your farm if
Lime :
can increase farm profit by €181/ha for Dairy
correctly managed. High perennial rye grass swards cover the cost of reseeding within 18
months.
Lime at sowing is essential. As the old sward decays, it
farmers.
1. Low perennial rye grass swards grow less grass, especially in the spring when grass is releases acids which lower the pH and create a difficult
of most economic value to your enterprise. Spring grass growth accounts for c.15%
of the PPI value of a variety. environment for the new seed trying to germinate.
Dry Matter Production of 15% and 100% Perennial
Ryegrass Swards
Dry Matter Production of 15% and 100% Perennial Ryegrass Swards
Phosphorus and Potassium:
As the new seed germinates it requires Phosphorous
(P) and Potassium (K), which are essential for root and
tiller development as the new plants emerge.
P and K requirements at reseeding:
Soil P K
Index (units per acre) (units per acre)
1 60 110
2 40 75
2. tonne
Each extra L
owof grass
perennial ryegrass
dry matter can increase farm swards areforof
profit by €181/ha Dairylower
farmers.
qualityrye grass
2. Low perennial (DMD) and
swards are support
of lower quality (DMD)lower
and supportlevels of
lower levels
3 30 50
of production compared to new reseeds. Correct grassland managements also plays
production
a massive role in pasturecompared to new
quality. A combination of bothreseeds. Correct
will lead to increase grass 4 0 30
DMD across the main grazing season.
grassland management also plays a massive
role in pasture quality. A combination of both
An increase of 1% in grass digestibility will:
- increase dry matter intake by 0.3-0.4kg DM The Pasture Profit Index (PPI)
willmilklead
- increase yield byto increased
0.5-0.6 kg grass DMD across the The PPI assigns economic values to differing grass
main grazing season.
High PRG swards allow 8% higher milk output per hectare compared to old permanent
pasture. seed varieties based on their:
1. Seasonal Dry Matter (DM) production,
An increase of 1% in grass digestibility will: a. Spring DM Yield
- increase dry matter intake by 0.3-0.4kg DM b. Summer DM Yield
- increase milk yield by 0.5-0.6 kg c. Autumn DM Yield
High PRG swards allow 8% higher milk output per 2. Grass Quality
hectare compared to old permanent pasture. 3. Silage Dry Matter production
4. Varietal persistency
3. S
wards with low levels of perennial ryegrass are
not as responsive to nitrogen. New reseeds All agronomic trial data on which these tables are
are 25% more responsive to Nitrogen based comes from official DAFM trials. The PPI values
11have been presented with the agronomic
data in these tables.
Grazing Utilisation - This is a
Provisional Trait on the recommended
list for 2021
The utilisation “star” figure is not part
of the PPI but it’s a visual illustration
highlighting the varieties that have
displayed improved ability to be
grazed by dairy cows. Variety grazing
Grazing
assessments haveUtilisation - This is a Provisional Trait on the recommended list for 2021
been conducted
at Teagasc Moorepark in plot grazing
The utilisation “star” figure is not part of the PPI but it’s a visual illustration highlighting the varieties
studies that
since
have2017. Variety
displayed grazing
improved ability to be grazed by dairy cows. Variety grazing assessments have
efficiencybeen
differences are expressed as
conducted at Teagasc Moorepark in plot grazing studies since 2017. Variety grazing efficiency
Residual differences
Grazed Height.
are expressed as Residual Grazed Height.
Grazing Utilisation - This is a Provisional Trait on the recommended list for 2021
The utilisation “star” figure is not part of the PPI but it’s a visual illustration highlighting the varieties
that have displayed improved ability to be grazed by dairy cows. Variety grazing assessments have
been conducted at Teagasc Moorepark in plot grazing studies since 2017. Variety grazing efficiency
differences are expressed as Residual Grazed Height.
Clover Nitrogen Fixed By Clover Swards
Clover
Derogation farmers must now use clover within their Chemical Nitrogen application Potential Fixed N
reseeding mix, perhaps we all should?
Derogation farmers must now use clover within their reseeding mix, 0perhaps kg/ha we all should? c.200kg/ha
Clover
Clover as a legume can fix nitrogen directly from the atmosphere. The 240nitrogen
kg/ha fixing potentialc.500kg/ha
Clover as a legume can fix nitrogen directly from
Derogation themust now use clover within their reseeding mix, perhaps we all should?
farmers
of the clover within your sward is dependent on the amount of chemical nitrogen you apply.
atmosphere. The nitrogen fixing potentialCloverof the clovercan fix nitrogen directly from the atmosphere. The nitrogen fixing potential
as a legume
What are the benefits of
of the clover
clover
within your sward is dependent on the amount of chemical toyour
within mysward
system?
is dependent on the amount of chemical nitrogen you apply.
nitrogen you apply.
Nitrogen Fixed By Clover Swards
Nitrogen Fixed ByNClover Swards
1. Theapplication
Chemical Nitrogen Potential
same grass growth
What are the benefits of clover to my system?
with Fixed
lower chemical nitrogen spread or increased Nitrogen Use
Chemical Nitrogen application Potential Fixed N
0 kg/ha
Efficiency c.200kg/ha
0 kg/ha spread or increased
c.200kg/ha Nitrogen Use Efficiency
1. T
he same grass growth with lower chemical nitrogen
240 kg/ha c.500kg/ha
240 kg/ha c.500kg/ha
Teagasc trials haveTeagasc
illustrated thathave
trials clover has the potential
illustrated to reduce
that clover nitrogen
has the use
potential to by 100kg
reduce per hause
nitrogen forby
the same
grass growth. 100kg per ha for the same grass growth.
Grass
GrassGrowth
Growthfrom
fromDiffering
DifferingNitrogen
Nitrogenapplications withwith
applications and and
without clover.
without clover.
C
All 3 treatments had the same level of growth M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Grass only swards plus 250kg Clover + grass swards plus Clover + grass swards plus
chemical N/ha, 250kg chemical N/ha 150kg chemical N/ha
12 www.dairygoldagri.ie
2. Improved animal performanceISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
2. Improved animal performance
Grass clover swards are higher in quality and have a higher intake potential than the grass only swards across the
main grazing season. The grass clover swards produced 33kg extra milk solids per cow per year.
Clover varieties:
At present there is no huge difference between clover varieties. Department trials have ranked them on production,
leaf size and clover %. For grazing mixes medium leaf clovers should be used. In the future perhaps we will have
clovers ranked on their ability to fix nitrogen.
Clover form:
Clover can come as “naked” clover or “pelleted” clover. Naked clover is straight clover seed. Pelleted clover is
clover seed + a coating.
1 kg of pelleted clover = 0.6kg of naked clover seed + 0.4kg of
- Phosphorus to help root development
- rhizobium inoculant to encourage quicker nodulation.
Dairygold Grass Seed Mixtures 2021
In 2021 we will again have a comprehensive range of mixes available. Our grazing mixes are available with:
- 0 clover,
- Standard clover. Enough to satisfy the new nitrates regulation.
- High clover. Designed to achieve 20% clover in paddock.
Please contact your local Area Sales Manager, our inside Sales Team on 022 31644
or your local branch for information on the full range available
ai158454227627_Half Page Ad v2 outlines.pdf 1 18/03/2020 14:37:57
13Mixture No 1+: High Clover Grazing (Also available without clover)
DAIRYGOLD MIXES 2021
By JOHN FRIEL,
B.Agr.Sc, Area Sales Manager. Mob: 086 246 1648
MixtureNo
Mixture No.1+:
1: Intensive
High CloverGrazing
Grazing (available with 0, standard
(Also available withoutand high clover inclusion)
clover)
Good PPI mix with excellent grazing utilisation. Includes 50%
tetraploid, astonenergy and meiduno. The diploids used within
the mix are excellent for grazing utilisation. This will marrys the
palatability and performance of the tetraploids with the ground cover
of the diploids while maintaining grazing utilisation.
A high tetraploid (astonenergy and meiduno) and clover mix. Taking advantage of astonenergys
exceptional palatability, quality, seasonal growth
High Clover with proven pasturebase on-farm performance.
option
Variety Heading Date Pliody PPI
Heading Kg
Date
RL GS
Pliody PPI RL GS Grazing
Utilisation
Drumbo 07-Jun LD
Astonenergy €121
01-Jun 3 6.4LT €138 5.5 *****
Kerry 01-Jun LD
Meiduno €119
03-Jun 2.25 6.1LT €180 5.2 ***
Astonenergy 04-Jun LT
Astonking
€153
05-Jun 2.25
5.4LD €115 6.8 ****
Meiduno 06-Jun LT
Oakpark
€194
02-Jun 3
5.2LD €132 6.6 ***
Clover
Clover 1
A high
%T Total PPI
% Ttetraploid
Mix PPI
(astonenergySpring Spring
Summer
and meiduno)
Summer Autumn Quality
Autumn
and clover Quality
mix. Taking Silage
advantage Persistency
of astonenergys
Silage Persistenc
exceptional
48%
50% palatability,
€143
€140.4 quality, seasonal growth
€22.5 €30.4€47.2 with
€37proven
€47.8 pasturebase
€39
€14.0 on-farm performance.
€31€8.2 €9 €0.0 -€3
Variety Heading Date Pliody PPI RL GS
Mixture
Drumbo No. 2: 2 cut silage (also available
07-Jun LD with
€121clover) 6.4
Mixture
Kerry No 2: Two
01-Jun Cut LD Silage €119 (Also 6.1 available with clover)
Astonenergy 04-Jun A mixture
LT designed
€153 specifically
5.4 for silage (two or more cuts) with
exceptional spring growth for high first cut yields. No clover in
Meiduno 06-Jun LT €194 5.2
standard mix but also available with clover. Durable varieties to
Clover ensure a long-lasting sward.
%T Total PPI Spring Summer Autumn Quality Silage Persistency
48% €143 €30.4 €37 €39 €31 €9 -€3
Heading Kg Pliody PPI RL GS Grazing
Date Utilisation
Mixture No 2: Two Cut Silage 27-May
Astonconqueror (Also3.5available
ID €195 with
6.1 clover)
****
Moira 26-May 3.5 ID €187 6.1 ****
Fintona 24-May 4.5 IT €168 5.4 ****
A mixture
%T designed
Total PPIspecifically
Spring for silage
Summer(two Autumn
or more cuts) with exceptional
Quality Silage spring growth
Persistency
for high
39% first cut yields, no€65.7
€182 clover (questionable
€45.7 role in an -€15.7
€54.5 intensive cutting
€41.4 system)
€0.0and
durable varieties to ensure a long lasting sward. Contains astonconqueror this year for
increased spring growth, quality and silage yields.
14 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
DAIRYGOLD
Astonconqueror
Rosetta
MIXES
26-May
24-May
ID
ID
2021
€180
€174
6.5
6.4
Fintona 22-May IT €215 5.5
%T Total PPI Spring Summer Autumn Quality Silage Pers
40% €192 €82 €29 €42 €10 €29
Mixture No. 3: Dairygold extend (available with 0, standard and high clover inclusion)
Mixture No 3: Dairygold Extend Gold (Also available w
clover)
Highest PPI mix available. Contains the top two late diploids on the
PPI and the 2nd highest late tetraploid. Excellent spring and autumn
growth combined with exceptional quality for a palatable sward.
High Clover option
Heading Kg Pliody PPI RL GS Grazing
Date Utilisation
Abergain 04-Jun 5 LT €212 5.6 ***
Aberchoice 11-Jun 2.5 LD €182 6.0 **
Ballyvoy 03-Jun 2 LD €167 6.3 *
Pelleted Clover 2
%T
Excellent Totaland
spring PPI autumn
Spring
growthSummer Autumn
combined with QualityqualitySilage
exceptional Persistency
for a palatable sward. Th
mixture
52% is for intensive
€194.5 grazing
€22 situations
€55 where extending
€55 grazing,
€44 is a priority.
€19 Also
€0.0suitable fo
cut silage systems.
Variety No. 4: Heading
Mixture Date/ extensive
Heavy Soils Pliody grazing PPI mixRL GSavailable without clover)
(also
AberGain 05-Jun LT €198 5.8
Aberchoice 09-Jun This isLD €194
an excellent mixture for6.3
heavy soils. It has a high inclusion of
Drumbo 07-Jun diploids
LD to provide a
€121good dense
6.4base to the sward with high ground
scoring varieties which will ensure a persistent sward in challenging
soils. The diploids included are high grazing utilisation mixes to
ensure this mix is palatable and easy to manage.
%T Total PPI Spring Summer Autumn Quality Silage Persis
41% €174 €29 €1 €43 €53 €16 -€
Heading Kg Pliody PPI RL GS Grazing
Mixture No 4 Heavy Soils (Also available with Utilisation
Date clover)
This mixture has been specifically Oakpark
formulated for02-Jun
heavier4.5
soils.LDSpecially designed
€132ensure
to***create a go
6.6 a persistent
dense base to the sward with high ground scoring varieties which will swar
challenging soils. The Heavy Soils Mix also delivers good seasonal growth and high quality varie
Lower levels of tetraploid will giveAstonconqueror
a dense sward that will
27-May 3.7 perform
ID in difficult
€195 6.1 conditions.
****
AstonEnergy 01-Jun 2.7 LT €138 5.5 *****
Clover 0.6
%T Total PPI Spring Summer Autumn Quality Silage Persistency Ground Score
Variety Heading Date Pliody PPI RL GS
25% €154.9 €30.7 €48.3 €51.6 €6.1 €16.8 €0.0 6.2
Drumbo 07-Jun LD €121 6.4
Clanrye 06-Jun LD €97 6.9
Kintyre 07-Jun LT €156 6.0 15OVERSEEDING - A Novel Seed Coating
Using ProNitro® in practice:
Spring 2020 has been wet with an increased risk Day 1: Graze
Using ProNitro® tight/cut silage
in practice:
of poaching. Oversowing with pronitro could be a Day 1: Day 2: Stitch in
Graze tight/cut ProNitro
silagegrass mixture
solution to this. Day 2: DayStitch
14: Graze ground grass
in ProNitro if possible
mixture
Day 14: Day 21-28: Spread fertiliser
Graze ground if possible as normal (dependent on r
Overseeding will not solve problems with invasive Day S42+:
Day 21-28: pread Continue rotation/cut
fertiliser as normal grass
(dependent on
weeds like annual meadow grass, scutch or bentgrass re:growth)
but is a great way to deal with damaged ground and Day 42+: Continue rotation/cut grass
OVERSEEDING - ryegrass in swards.
maintain perennial A Novel Seed Coating
Spring
We need2020
to has been wet
maximise thewith an increased
proportions risk of poaching.
of perennial rye Oversowing with pronitro
could
grassbe a solution
(PRG) withinto this.
our swards to maximise:
• Seasonal growth, especially spring growth
• Milk production
Overseeding will not solve problems such with invasive weeds like annual meadow grass,
• Nitrogen
scutch use efficiency
or bentgrass but is a great way to deal with damaged ground and maintain perennial
ryegrass in swards.
ProNitro® is a patented seed coating that focuses on
We need to maximise
improving the proportions
nutrient utilization duringof perennial
the early rye grass (PRG) within our swards to
stages
maximise:
of plant growth. ProNitro® contains 15% nitrogen, a
• Seasonal especially spring growth
•combination of both fast acting and slow release N.
Milk production
• Nitrogen use efficiency
As the fertiliser is coated onto the seeds, the
germinating
ProNitro® and developing
is a patented seedling
seed coating receives
that focuses the
on improving Benefits of ProNitro®
nutrient utilization during
benefit,
the early not theofsurrounding
stages plant growth.plants. This contains
ProNitro® is particularly • aBcombination
15% nitrogen, etterBenefits
early growth
of bothfrom stronger plants with 30%
ofProNitro®
important
fast acting andwhenslow over-seeding
release N. into a competitive longer roots, improved
• Better stress-tolerance,
early growth from stronger and an with 3
plants
sward. average of 30% more viable plants,
tolerance, and an average of 30% more viable p
• More efficient
As the fertiliser is coated onto the seeds, the germinating and developing seedling
• Moreuse of nutrients
receives
efficient use with fertiliserwith
of nutrients applied
fertiliser ap
Conventional
the benefit, notstitching of grassplants.
the surrounding seedsThis
intois an existing important
particularly directly to the root zone,
when over-seeding
sward
into with fertiliser
a competitive application drives all grass new
sward. • B igger and• heavier seeds
Bigger and withseeds
heavier better soilbetter
with contact,
soil contac
and old. This can lead to the old grass smothering the • F eeds the seed not the weed,
new.
Conventional • C ontains
stitching of grass seeds into an existing sward with fertiliser •15% N; fast
Feeds
application theand
seedslow
drives release,
not the weed,
all grass new and old. This can lead to the old grass smothering the • Tnew.
he turnaround time is shorter and the cost is 1/3
• Contains 15% N; fast and slow release,
Trials show ProNitro coated seeds to produce 200% of conventional reseeding.
more fresh weight than untreated seed three weeks The turnaround time is shorter and the cost is 1
Trials show ProNitro coated seeds to produce 200% more fresh weight than •untreated seed
after sowing. In the ProNitro® system the seed is fed Reseeding costs:
three weeks after sowing. In the ProNitro® system the seed is fed individually and this
individually and this means that it gets ahead quicker Reseeding costs:
means that it gets ahead quicker and so can compete better. ProNitro Conventional
and so can compete better. Conventional
Re-seeding ProNitro
DLF trials show ProNitro® treated seed yield’s over 200% more fresh weight in the first Re-seeding
DLF trials show ProNitro® treated seed yield’s over Seed 90
three Seed 90
200%weeks.
more fresh weight in the first three weeks.
Sowing Sowing 4040
Total Total 130130 340 340
Pronitro is available in a 12kg bag:
Pronitro is available
- The 12kgin abag
12kg bag:
= 8kg seed, 4kg nitrogen coating
• T he 12kg- bag = 8kg seed,
Varieties in the 4kg nitrogen
grazing coating
mix are: 95% solus, aspe
• Varieties-in the
Rategrazing mix ac
= 12kg per are: 95% solus, aspect
+ 5% white clover
• R ate = 12kg per ac
Please contact your local Area Sales Manager,
Branch Agri Lead or inside sales on 022 31644 for
more information on ProNitro
16 www.dairygoldagri.ieenvironmental step on their farm! that marginal land has needed to be reclaimed and/or drained to maintain it as being eligible for
payment, despite
• DAFM the detrimental
have not effect this might
provided a have to the water
definition quality
ofISSUE
what or biodiversity.
specifically Last qu
would
98 - APRIL 2021
What is a Water Quality Feature & Eligibility
year (2020)Rules?
DAFM took a step in a very positive direction allowing actions which would benefit water
Feature, however they advise that if you wish to claim an area this
quality to be eligible for BPS when located within a Priority Area for Action (PAA). This year, this
• DAFM have not provided a definition
allowanceofhaswhatregulation,
been toyou
specifically
extended should
allwould
areas contact
qualify
across as aanWater
the country, ASSAP
making Advisor
Quality
the for of
protection assistance.
water qualityE
PROGRESSIVE NEW BPS ELIGIBILITY RULES more affordableASSAP
Feature, however they adviseathat if you wish Advisor
and more
to claim and
attractive
environmental step on their farm!
an area Teagasc
option
thisforyear also
farmers
under have
aiming atodedicated
this take this veryASSAP
new positiveadvisor a
A waterfor
• Advisor quality feature may include
hasbut is not limited to buffer st
FOR WATER and TeagascPROTECTION ACTIONS
regulation, you should contact an ASSAP assistance. Each Co-Op a dedicated
ASSAP Advisor waterbodies
also have a dedicated ASSAP(both planted
advisor acrossorthe
unplanted);
country. ponds or large sedimen
What is a Water Quality Feature & Eligibility Rules?
•A water quality feature may include • DAFMbut is drains
havenot are made
notlimited
providedto
to flow;
buffer
a definition
planted
strips
of whatalong willow
the banks
specifically
stands
of (or
would qualify
other water tol
as a Water Quality
waterbodies (both planted or unplanted); to
Feature,ponds filter
however run-off
orthey advise
large for
thatclean
sediment yards
if youtraps
wish to or
into roadways
claim an areafarm
which and
this yearrewetted peat plo
under this new
regulation, By
you CIARA
should contact DONOVAN,
an ASSAP Advisor for assistance. Each Co-Op has a dedicated
drains are made to flow; planted willowFarm
To be(or
• stands
Sustainability
eligible
other for waterBPStolerant
entitlements
species) being the
in 2021, usedarea in question m
ASSAP Advisor andAdvisor, Supply
Teagasc also haveChain Division
a dedicated ASSAP advisor across the country.
to filter run-off for clean yards or•roadways under the 2008 Single
and rewetted Payment Scheme and must have been elig
A water quality feature maypeat includeplots.
but is not limited to buffer strips along the banks of
For many years • nowTo betheeligible for BPS entitlements
Department inwaterbodies
of Agriculture, (See
2021, the(both the
area
ASSAP BPS
planted terms
in question
Water and Conditions
must
Quality
or unplanted); have
ponds orbeenavailable
Feature’.
large claimed online,
Include
sediment forwhich
note
traps into further
infarm de
Food and the Marine under(DAFM)
the 2008 Single
have beenPayment for• and
drains
Scheme
criticized areThe area
made
must the must
to have
flow;
‘info’ be
planted
been mapped
box willow
eligible
when separately
stands
for (or
payment
mapping in
other water this
in
(as years’
tolerant
2008.
shown BPS applicatio
species) being used
below).
to filter run-off for
identified clean yards
as‘ASSAP or
‘an ASSAP roadways
Waterand rewetted
Quality peat plots.
Feature’. Include note in th
(Seeregulations
their rigid eligibility the BPS terms and Conditions
relating available
to the •Basic online,
Enter for further details)
Water Quality Feature’ when
To be eligible for BPS entitlements in 2021, the area in question must have been claimed
asked
Payment Schemes• The (BPS).
area The
mustrequirement for landunder
be mapped separately toin thismapping to
years’
the 2008
(as
BPS
Single
shown
describeapplication
Payment
below).
‘reason
Scheme and
Enter
for
and ‘ASSAP
itrequesting
must must be Water
have been change
eligible
Quality
to MEA’
for payment
Feature’
in 2008.
w
be in ‘good agricultural andasenvironmental
identified ‘an ASSAP Water condition’,
Quality ‘reason
(SeeFeature’.
the BPS in
terms for
and requesting
the
Include main
Conditions change
noteapplication
inavailable
the ‘info’ to
areas
box
online, MEA’ in the
table.
forwhen
further main application are
details)
The must be mapped separately in this years’ BPS application and it must be
to areaWater
has often required that marginal
mapping land
(as shown Enter• ‘ASSAP
has needed
below). Quality Feature’ when asked to describe
identified as ‘an ASSAP Water Quality Feature’. Include note in the ‘info’ box when
be reclaimed and/or drained to maintain it as being
‘reason for requesting change to MEA’ in the
mapping (asmain
shownapplication areas Water
below). Enter ‘ASSAP table.Quality Feature’ when asked to describe
eligible for payment, despite the detrimental effect this
‘reason for requesting change to MEA’ in the main application areas table.
might have to the water quality or biodiversity. Last year
(2020) DAFM took a step in a very positive direction
allowing actions which would benefit water quality to
be eligible for BPS when located within a Priority Area
for Action (PAA). This year, this allowance has been
extended to all areas across the country, making the
protection of water quality a more affordable and more
attractive option for farmers aiming to take this very
positive environmental step on their farm!
What is a Water Quality Feature & Eligibility Rules?
• DAFM have not provided a definition of what
specifically would qualify as a Water Quality Note: All farmers with a stocking rate above 170 Kgs N/
Feature, however they advise that if you wish to Ha farmers are required to fence off all watercourses
claim an area this year under this new regulation, (defined as being a blue line on OSI 6” maps) 1.5m
you should contact an ASSAP Advisor for out from the top of the bank this year (if not already
assistance. Each Co-Op has a dedicated ASSAP fenced off). While the watercourse itself is not eligible
Advisor and Teagasc also have a dedicated ASSAP for payment under the BPS, the 1.5m fenced off area is
advisor across the country. already included in payment and does not need to be
• A water quality feature may include but is mapped out in your BPS application.
not limited to buffer strips along the banks of
waterbodies (both planted or unplanted); ponds Case Study:
or large sediment traps into which farm drains are Michael McGrath and his son Sean, farm under the
made to flow; planted willow stands (or other water shadow of the Galty Mountains near Ballylanders,
tolerant species) being used to filter run-off for County Limerick milk around 110 cows. In 2009,
clean yards or roadways and rewetted peat plots. Michael planted over 200 ash trees along the banks
• T o be eligible for BPS entitlements in 2021, the of the river that flowed through his farm (the Aherlow
area in question must have been claimed under River, currently at ‘good status’). While in many areas
the 2008 Single Payment Scheme and must have this resulted in a narrow buffer, this planting also
been eligible for payment in 2008. (See the BPS included some wider area (as shown in the photo
terms and Conditions available online, for further below). Michael estimates that approximately an acre
details) of land was planted in total. The trees were not planted
• The area must be mapped separately in this years’ as part of any environmnetal or forestry scheme so
BPS application and it must be identified as ‘an this area did not qualify for extra payment and in fact,
17ineligible for BPS payment. Michael estimated that he has lost 0.4 of an entitlement per year since
planting this area. This year, this area can now be mapped, marked as an ASSAP water Quality
Feature and it will be eligible for payment under the Basic Payment Scheme.
at the time, the tree planting made the land ineligible for BPS payment. Michael estimated that he has lost 0.4 of
an entitlement per year since planting this area. This year, this area can now be mapped, marked as an ASSAP
Michael “This will
saysFeature
water Quality anddefinitely help farmers
it will be eligible to make
for payment under the decision
the Basic to plant
Payment buffers along rivers”.
Scheme.
Michael says “This will definitely help farmers to make the decision to plant buffers along rivers”.
Above: Photo of some of the ash trees planted by Michael and Sean, an area now eligible for payment under
Above: Photo of some of the ash trees planted by Michael and Sean, an area now eligible for
the BPS this year.
payment under the BPS this year.
Benefits to the River
This kind of planting of a river buffer is very beneficial to water quality as it acts positively in a number of ways:
✔ It can greatly reduce losses from surface run-off, physically slowing flow
✔ The growing vegetation can help to take up nutrients flowing through the topsoil and sub soil preventing
it from reaching the water.
✔ The roots along the riverbank helps to stabilize the bank and prevent erosion and sediment losses into
the water.
✔ There are numerous benefits from a biodiversity aspect.
Conclusion
With increasing pressure for farmers to take steps to protect water, there is now an incentive to encourage the
fencing off of more than the minimum area required, where it would be beneficial to water quality. Whether you
might wish to protect the environment, hope to prevent your land from being lost through erosion or, like Michael
McGrath, aim to secure ‘hurley production’ into the future for the sake of Limerick hurling (!), this new proactive
measure taken by DAFM is welcome.
18 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 98 - APRIL 2021
Red clover
DAIRYGOLD / TEAGASC
JOINT
By John P McCarthy PROGRAMME
– Dairygold/Teagasc Joint
By JOHN McCARTHY,
Programme Soils Pilot Project in the Dairygold / Teagasc Joint Program
Red clover: It is a legume usually set with a companion grass like perennial rye grass that can persist for up to
Red clover:
six years It is a legume
if managed correctly.usually setsuited
It is more with atocompanion grass than
silage production like perennial
grazing duerye grass
to its thatgrowing
higher can persist
point.
for up to six years
If established properlyif managed
it has beencorrectly.
proven toItbe
is an
more suitedforage
excellent to silage
withproduction than
a potential DM grazing
yield due to12-15
of between its
tonne/ha
higher with a protein
growing point.content ranging properly
If established between 16 it to
has20been
%. The crop can
proven to fix
beupantoexcellent
200 kg N/ha overwith
forage the year
a so
it is advised to be grown without any application of nitrogen (N) to allow the clover plant work to its full potential.
potential DM yield of between 12-15 tonne/ha with a protein content ranging between 16 to 20 %.
The yield from 4 or 5 ha could produce 25 % of the winter feed requirement for a 100 cow herd.
The crop can fix up to 200 kg N/ha over the year so it is advised to be grown without any application
Keynitrogen
of to success
(N)oftored clover
allow theuse
clover plant work to its full potential. The yield from 4 or 5 ha could
1. Very good initial establishment.
produce 25 % of the winter feed requirement for a 100 cow herd.
2. Sow red clover with a companion grass (Tetraploid perennial grass).
3. Lime, Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) maintained at recommended rates
Key4.toAvoid
success of red clover use
chemical N use.
5. Early silage harvest schedule starting in May.
6. 1.Requires
Very good
some initial
wilting establishment.
or addition of preservative to aid ensilability.
7. 2. Sow
Avoid usered clovermachinery
of heavy with a companion grass (Tetraploid
in wet conditions perennial
as wheel damage grass).
can effect crop persistency.
3. Lime, Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) maintained at recommended rates
Red clover management: Like most crops it performs best on well drained, fertile soils. It’s best sown as a full
4. Avoid chemical N use.
reseed or under sown with arable silage in the month of April. A seeding rate of 14 kg per acre using a 55%
grass5.andEarly
45 %silage harvest
red clover mixschedule
is advised.starting
TeagascinSolohead
May. research station use a mix of a hybrid ryegrass
(Aston6.Crusader
Requires – 9some wilting
kg), red cloveror(Milvus
addition of preservative
- 4 kg) and white cloverto (Barblanca
aid ensilability.
– 1 kg). After crop establishment,
it should be allowed to flower before harvesting the first cut silage. This is to help root development and the
7. Avoid use of heavy machinery in wet conditions as wheel damage can effect crop
growth of bacteria that fix nitrogen. The following silage cuts should be harvested at 6 to 8 week intervals at any
time betweenpersistency.
bud development and early flowering. Red clover sown in mixture with a companion grass offers
a number of advantages including higher total forage yield, easier to obtain satisfactory silage fermentation and
Red clover
utilisation of management:
fixed nitrogen byLike most cropsgrass.
the companion it performs
Annual Pbest
and on well drained,
K replacement fertile soils.
requirements willIt’s best
be at least 60
sown
units ofasP aand
full200
reseed
unitsor under
K per acresown with
for a 12 arable
tonne silage
DM/ha yieldinper
theyear.
month of April. A seeding rate of 14 kg
per acre using a 55% grass and 45 % red clover mix is advised. Teagasc Solohead research station use
19
a mix of a hybrid ryegrass (Aston Crusader – 9 kg), red clover (Milvus - 4 kg) and white cloverFERTILISER MATTERS-Fertiliser recording and Time for
sulphur
FERTILISER MATTERS By William Burchill PhD, Teagasc/Dairygold joint programme
FERTILISER MATTERS-Fertiliser recording and Time for
sulphur
FERTILISER RECORDING AND TIME FOR SULPHUR
Fertiliser recording By William Burchill PhD, Teagasc/Dairygold joint programme
On every farm there will be paddocks that grow more grass than others while getting similar
or even lower levels of fertiliser or slurry. Some paddocks will also get much more N
fertiliser than originally
Fertiliser planned as the year progresses. The only way to get a handle on this
recording
By WILLIAM BURCHILL, PhD.,
and manage
On everyfertiliser
farm thereapplication to get
will be paddocks thatmore fromgrass
grow more it isthan
to others
recordwhile
what we are
getting actually
similar
spreading across
or even thelevels
lower farm of
andfertiliser
in individual paddocks.
or slurry. Some paddocks will also get much more N
Teagasc/Dairygold Joint Programme
fertiliser than originally planned as the year progresses. The only way to get a handle on this
Pasturebase Ireland,
and manage in particular
fertiliser the to
application Pasturebase Ireland
get more from it isApp on your
to record smart
what we phone can be
are actually
used tospreading across the farm
record fertiliser, slurryand in individual
and paddocks.during the year as they occur. This can
lime applications
Fertiliser recording be doneindividual
quickly and easily paddock (Fig 1:theFertiliser
by just selecting paddocks spread, report).
the date,For
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this and manage fertiliser application to get more from
it is to record what we are actually spreading across
the farm and in individual paddocks.
Pasturebase Ireland, in particular the Pasturebase
Ireland App on your smart phone can be used to
record fertiliser, slurry and lime applications during
the year as they occur. This can be done quickly and
easily by just selecting the paddocks spread, the date,
the fertiliser type and the amount applied on the App
(Fig. 1). Pasturebase Ireland can quickly generate a
report that shows you the amount of N, P, K, S and lime Fig 1. Pasturebase Ireland mobile app fertiliser application recording and fertiliser report
applied to any individual paddock at any point during screens.
Fig 1. Pasturebase Ireland mobile app fertiliser application recording and fertiliser report
the year and also the timing and N,P,K,S application Fig 1. Pasturebase Ireland mobile app fertiliser
screens.
rate of the most recent fertiliser application on an application recording and fertiliser report screens.
Time for sulphur
Sulphur is closely associated with Nitrogen uptake and efficiency and influences the crude protein content and
yield of both grass and silage. The month of April when following cows with fertiliser is a good time to start sulphur
applications.
Sulphur targets
15 units S/acre across April to June on grazing ground (see table below)
15 units S/acre on 1st cut silage ground
10 units S/acre on 2nd cut silage ground (Only required on lighter soil types)
April May June April-June April-June April-June
bags/ac bags/ac bags/ac bags/ac Units S/ac Units N/acYou can also read
