After a challenging dry season, recent rainfall has brought a welcome flush of green across the UK. However, soil moisture remains low in many areas, and feed shortages are still a concern. While most farms are expected to get through, others will need a strong silage cut in September.
Spring mating appears to have gone well, with interim pregnancy diagnosis results looking positive. Autumn calving is also progressing steadily, though the quality of standing hay is variable and may require supplementation.
Safeguarding for 2026
After a season like this, it’s critical to ensure that 2025 doesn’t negatively impact your 2026 performance—physically or financially. That means:
- Closing at the right average farm cover. Aim for 2600–2800 kgDM/ha if growth allows. If growth is limited, target at least 2200–2300 kgDM/ha at the start of the final grazing round. If your cover is below 2000 kgDM/ha, resist the urge to increase grass allocation. Doing so risks grazing pre–two-leaf stage, which stunts regrowth and compromises spring performance.
- Matching demand to growth. Grass demand must align with growth rates to maintain covers heading into spring. Use the below graph to visualise the impact of premature grazing.
- Feed budgeting from autumn to magic day. Build flexible feed budgets that account for multiple scenarios. Knowing your feed deficit early allows for smarter purchasing decisions and better contingency planning.
- Managing autumn calvers indoors. For those housing autumn calvers instead of grazing, consider how autumn growth and pasture quality will meet turnout requirements. Monitor covers closely and adjust accordingly.
- Monitoring body condition. Ensure cows and heifers are meeting their growth requirements.
- Autumn silage making. Choose a fine day, cut in the morning after dew lifts, and pick up in the early evening. Tedder immediately behind the mower and turn the grass twice during the day to maximise dry matter. There will be more effluent so ensure your clamp can capture this.
For more support with your autumn feed budgeting or pasture cover targets, get in touch with your LIC Pasture to profit consultant today.
