We are now well into the mid grazing season, and it is that time of year where grass can run out of control very easily, especially if these regular showers continue. Weather permitting, strong paddocks needs to be taken out before or as they fall due to be grazed. Yes holding out a paddock for longer is an excellent chance to make some quality extra forage but the task could be better viewed as an opportunity to refresh and sweeten a “stale” pasture for the next grazing.

Spread nitrogen little and often to avoid peaks and troughs, grass requires 1 unit of N/day this time of year. Often unnecessary amounts of nitrogen are spread during the season leading to overly lush pastures that livestock don’t enjoy. Consider spending less money on nitrogen and more on phosphorous and potassium on “hungry” ground to get more balanced growth across the whole farm.

SPRING RESEEDS

These are now ready for a post-emergence herbicide if not done already. Where docks are solely the problem, a cheap and cheerful fluroxypyr application will do fine, otherwise Pastor Trio is recommended. Both sprays will knock out clover however, if you wish to retain the plant, use a mix of 2,4-DB and Triad.
Graze the new ley as soon as the roots will hold, and continue to graze at covers less than 1000kg. This grass will be growing vigorously once it gets going, so ensure it is fed well with a compound. Try to keep slurry and silage equipment away from it as the soil and roots are vulnerable.