In our latest Pasture to Profit update, our consultants share some recommendations to keep your farm on-track after a cooler, windier start to summer.
With mixed weather, several farmers are still waiting to do their first cut of silage. Additionally, some residuals are still poor from grazing higher covers. Soil types seem to be the biggest factor in getting residuals and grass wedges back under control. With cooler weather and constant wind growth rates slow with some farmers reintroducing supplements.
Spring mating looks to be going well. This is likely due to farmers feeding higher levels of concentrate leading into mating.
Recommendations for the coming month
- Monitor your herd’s non-return rates. This will help you predict conception rates and if you have enough bull power to meet empty rate targets.
- Ensure bulls are fit for purpose before you turn them out with the cows – correct body weight, are mobile and have good semen mobility and count.
- With grass now heading, use this time to correct residuals and boost quality through pre and post mowing where needed. Assess the quantity and quality of the sward before selecting pre or post mowing to achieve the best results.
- If there is the ability to pull back concentrates, do so at a rate of 0.5kg per every 5-6 days so you don’t impact mating performance. If mineralising cows through concentrates, ensure this is managed appropriately.
- Start drying prep for autumn herds.
- Now is a good time to review any infrastructure shortcomings after the winter and spring and to assess any paddocks that need sward lifting.
- Start fly treatments early, before the fly population explodes, to optimise treatment response.
Contact an LIC Pasture to Profit for more advice on what’s happening on your farm.