Grass Growth
Average daily grass growth has increased slightly to 53.8kg DM/ha/day, a 0.5kg DM/ha/day increase on the previous week’s figure. However, remains lower than the 6-year average of 57kg DM/ha/day. Reduced grass growth can be attributed to the limited rainfall, although variation in growth rates is seen across the regions.
The South-East and the West Midlands have experienced a fall in growth rates of 5kg DM/ha/day. Whereas the North-East has seen an increase of 9kg DM/ha/day. With rain forecast over the weekend, growing conditions should improve.
Milk Yield from Grazing (MYFG)
Average MYFG has risen to M+10.3litres/day, in comparison to last week’s average of M+7.9litres/day. This increase can be attributed to an increase in potential DMI of 0.9kg/day to an average of 11.9kg/day, alongside a rise in estimated ME to 11MJ/kg DM. The 6-year average for the same period remains higher at M+13.03litres/day.
The East shows the highest potential MYFG figure at M+18.9litres/day, although this is from a relatively small sample size. As always, it is recommended that individual farm grass analysis is undertaken to ensure accurate rationing practice.
Growing Cattle
Target growth rates at grass for growing cattle should be at least 1kg/day. Reported potential growth from grazing where no restrictions are applied assumes animals receive adequate dry matter. Some examples of additional concentrate required for this week’s average grass are supplied below:
• A 200kg animal has a potential growth from grazing of 0.6kg/day. In order to achieve the target growth rate, an additional 1.1kg/day of concentrate is estimated to be required.
• A 300kg animal has a potential growth from grazing of 0.8kg/day. In order to achieve the target growth rate, an additional 0.6kg/day of concentrate is estimated to be required.
For more information on maximising your homegrown forage potential, speak to our experts on 01829 797 125 or order NWF grass seed online HERE.
