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First-cut silage has now been harvested on a number of the programme farms over the last week. On those farms that have yet to harvest first-cut, the plan is to make silage over the coming week as weather permits.
Yields are down on previous years due to lower grass growth this spring. However, with excellent harvesting conditions last week and cutting grass before it heads out, feed quality should be excellent.
With silage aftermath still green, the farms will experience quick regrowths. There is potential to make up any fodder deficits in the second cut.
To encourage regrowth, slurry will be applied as soon as possible, followed by fertiliser.
Breeding
Breeding has started on the majority of farms. Artificial insemination is being used on several farms, either as a sole method of breeding or combined with stock bulls. To facilitate the use of AI, two farms are following a fixed-time AI protocol.
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