The cold and wet conditions of last week have set plans for early turnout back by a week. In terms of stock already out, small groups with plenty of grass in front of them were generally OK, but larger groups may have done some poaching and rehousing was the only option. Thankfully, conditions have since turned for the better. Since Monday, temperatures have risen and rainfall has been relatively low.

Dry farms have probably soaked sufficiently again to let stock back out. Wetter farms will need more time.

Met Éireann is forecasting patchy rain and breezy conditions into early next week, but critically it is due to be mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 9°C to 12°C.

With calving getting into full swing on a lot of farms around the country, I would seriously consider getting some calves out to the fields.

Both feed stocks and calf health will benefit enormously. If the weather breaks and sheds get overcrowded it can have serious health implications.

Only apply small groups, five to 10 per batch is plenty. Calves will need shelter and a dry place to lie.

If a calf can get five to seven days outside they should be strong enough to withstand most weather conditions. Remember to ensure a good supply of hi-mag minerals to cows at grass.

Grazing management

Grass growth is slowly increasing. The mild conditions will only help to accelerate this.

Average growth rates in the southern half of the country are about 7-9kg DM/ha/day, while northern parts are about 5kg DM/ha/day lower.

That said, growth isn’t too much of a concern yet with grass covers in most places strong enough to support a good few weeks’ grazing.

When stock are turned out, it is important to consider how you are going to graze off this ground.

Lighter stores are ideal for the job. I would be looking at strip grazing or block grazing for two reasons: to maximise grass utilisation and to minimise poaching.

Regularly moving a strip wire will force stock to graze ground better, particularly on heavier covers. But most importantly, regular allocations of grass will keep stock settled.

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Grass+: lots of grass and good weather