Update: May – 2025
Moving into the after-cut season we need to make sure we are applying the correct nutrition to ensure yield and quality.
Sweet Silage 23 – 0 – 13 + 5So3 + 3 Na2O offers not only nitrogen which is important for yield but sulphur that is important for protein content. Protein content will ensure optimum silage quality.
Furthermore, we must make sure we are replacing the potash which is removed from the previous cut. Even if slurry is applied often an extra form of potash helps boost yield and improves water regulation of the plant.
The fertiliser blend also contains sodium which increases the sugars within the plant making the grass more palatable. Slurry or muck can make the grass tase bitter, increasing the sugar levels will make the forage taste sweeter.
A grazing option is also available. 23 – 0 – 0 + 5 So3 + 5Na2O. I would strongly recommend this for quality and yield as this supplies sulphur and sodium. Apply at 100kg per acre.
Research at Bangor university should intake increased therefore increase in milk yield and butterfat.
**Phillips, Clive & M Waita, J & Arney, David & C Chiy, P. (1999). The effects of sodium and potassium fertilizers on the grazing behaviour of dairy cows. Applied Animal Behaviour Science.
