DairyCo

Forage for Knowledge update - June 14

Published 14 June 11

As has previously been the case, growth figures are still showing where there's been rain and where there hasn't.  In drier areas which have just had rain, where you will now get growth, but as on an aftermath don't be tempted to graze too soon.  If you graze the first leaf you're getting poor feed value and you'll use up the energy store in the base of the plant, and this slows plant re-growth.

If you graze too early you will be reducing potential yield.  The first leaf is the smallest, the second bigger and the third is the biggest, so if you graze before that point you're losing out on much needed yield.

ME shows the quality is there, with the ongoing challenge of utilising that quality fully and not feeding too much energy elsewhere.

Combining these dry matters with high energy creates excellent feed value.  However, the lower growth rates from dry weather mean supplies could be limited.  The quality is good, our farmers may have to supplement because of low quantity, but do take into account the quality when supplement so you don't waste money.

With crude protein, again the figures this week are showing the good grass management of our farmers who are getting consistent results.

Take a look at the graphs.