Thoughts are now turning to fertilising ground for second cuts. Eighty units per acre of nitrogen are required. The amount of phosphorus and potash needed depends on soil fertility. Index 3 soils need eight units/acre of phosphorus (P) and 28 units of potash (K). Index 2 soils need 16 units/acre of P and 40 units/acre of K. Index 1 soils need 24 units/acre of P and 56 units/acre of K. Remember to deduct what nutrients are provided in slurry.

Every 1,000 gallons/acre of cattle slurry will provide five units/acre of P and 30 units/acre of K. The nitrogen value of slurry is hit and miss, especially when spread with a splash plate. On damp and misty days you can expect six units/acre of nitrogen per 1,000 gallons/acre of slurry. Weather conditions are ideal for spreading urea but you should wait 10 days between slurry and spreading urea and vice versa. If spreading CAN and slurry, spread slurry first and top up with fertiliser four or five days later.

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