Now is time to take action on silage shortage

DUE to many silage areas being grazed later than usual, poor spring growth and complete depletion of last year’s winter feed, most farmers have a lot less silage than normal.

The stocking rate on most farms will allow extra second cut silage to be taken if sufficient nitrogen (80 units per acre) was applied. If there is likely to be a silage deficit after a second cut, now is the time to take action.

Some farmers might sell surplus dry stock or make arrangements to buy in hay, silage or maize silage. Others might consider sowing rape or kale if they have suitable dry land. However, growing extra silage on your own land, if possible, will be the best option for most farmers, if it does not compromise your grazing requirements.