Currently, grass growth is very mixed across the country. Farms in the northwest are flush, while many further south and particularly in the east are experiencing very low growth rates.
Average farm covers (AFC) reflect this situation – in drier areas, herds are already being heavily supplemented to support AFC.
Looking ahead, there’s growing concern about winter forage supplies given the current stage of the growing season.
There’s also uneven uptake of the Bluetongue vaccine across regions, with some recent symptoms in autumn-calving herds raising suspicion of potential undiagnosed cases.
Key considerations for the month ahead
If your AFC is dipping below target, now might be the time to take decisive action. Consider culling PD-negative or low-performing cows and drying off early to ease demand on grass.
After a long dry spell, the first rainfalls may lead to runoff rather than soil absorption.
This video by Rob Thompson from the University of Reading shows the effects.
Strategic use of nitrogen is critical to reduce nutrient losses – only apply when soil moisture has begun to return.
If AFC is under 2000 or there’s a buildup of dead matter in the sward, expect it to take 2–3 weeks of intensive supplementation to stabilise production. Don’t withdraw feed too soon as it could jeopardise milk output and recovery.
Correcting pasture quality post rain must carefully balance growth with demand and AFC levels, so growth isn’t stunted.
Autumn-calving herds should manage deferred grazing as conditions evolve. If rain triggers a grass flush, make sure dry cows have access to sufficient regrowth, whether you’re set stocking, using bales, or deferring grazing.
Lastly, keep an eye on the feed quality for heifers and youngstock during dry conditions – their future performance depends on it.
Please contact the Pasture to Profit team if you have any questions.
