Nitrogen fertiliser boost for grass to aid beef

Feb 20 2008 The Journal

TARGETED use of nitrogen fertiliser will boost early spring grass growth, giving yearling cattle a good chance of finishing off pasture this season, according to independent grassland consultant Bryan Evans.

“The high cost of fertiliser will be an issue this year, so field selection and application rate for the early treatments will need careful thought,” says Mr Evans.

He has helped compile a leaflet on profitable beef production from grass for the Eblex Beef Better Returns Programme.

He added: “Getting the grass motoring in spring can really boost growth rates by midsummer.

“Grazed grass costs just 6.5p/kg of utilised dry matter.

“Even with the increase in nitrogen prices, this will still be significantly cheaper than purchased compound, which, of course, has also gone up.

“Applications of 40 to 50kg/ha of N from late February on lowland sites, and before the end of March on upland sites, should easily pay for themselves.

“Target the younger, perennial ryegrass swards on lighter land for the most cost-effective response.”

Maximising the use of farm yard manure and slurry will also help cut fertiliser costs.

Mr Evans added: “Carefully matching stocking rates to grass supply in early season will produce high-quality leafy growth in May and June.”

The leaflet, More profitable beef from grass – top tips to get better returns from your grass, is available free to English levy-payers from Eblex, tel: (0870) 241-8829 or email brp@eblex.org.uk.