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As per the grass growth rate map, figures are exceptionally high for the time of year.
This is good news, as it means building up autumn covers is a lot easier this year.
But it also poses a challenge, because if not managed grass could go out of hand, at a bad time of year. Because growth is higher than normal, it means less supplement needs to be fed this autumn – extra feed is in the fields. Ignoring growth rates and feeding the same amount as in other years will mean even more grass and this can be a problem.
Keeping quality
Grazing overly high covers too soon is also not good. Quality deteriorates and subsequent re-growth is much slower, as there’s a white or yellow butt at the base of the sward. Also, if weather turns wet, grazing high covers is a disaster.
Cutting paddocks for bales in September has the same effect and should be avoided. If you’re above target for grass now, consider cutting for bales or grazing with other stock, such as beef cattle or in-calf heifers.
These will be easier on the field and will suit farms that have enough silage already, but the other stock must get in and out of the paddock in a day or two, and graze out well.
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