Maximising Autumn Growth

Maximising autumn growth

The quantity of feed grown in autumn and early winter will largely be dictated by three factors; soil moisture, temperature, and biological activity.

Soil moisture, unless irrigating, and soil temperature are largely outside our control, however soil biology and physical soil structures can be positively influenced.

DoloZest or CalciZest applied as soon as the soils are moist enough for pasture growth will speed the re-establishment of pastures on soils that have suffered from summer heat and dry.

Our experience is that a prolonged summer dry spell, of all climatic conditions, has the greatest adverse affect on soil biology and soil biology ultimately dictates the quantity and quality of feed grown.

 In the Central Plateau if strong pasture growth is not achieved before Easter, an early cold snap can mean a long period of winter slow growth

Strong biological activity in the soil increases the quantity of nutrients, including nitrogen, available for the important autumn period, and will help keep soil temperatures higher heading into winter.

Soon after the application of either CalciZest or DoloZest soils begin to noticeably soften. Where DoloZest or CalciZest have been used for two or more years undersowing or complete re-establishment of permanent pasture becomes a discretionary activity.

The reason for grass pulling in autumn is due to plant roots being unable to penetrate sufficiently far into the soil. Rye grass plants in a well-aerated biologically active soil will have a significant proportion of their root mass at 25cm and are able to withstand close grazing.

Animal feet exert significant pressure particularly in high traffic areas such as gateways and around troughs. Even in these areas healthy soils will recover rapidly from the downward pressure of many feet.

Temperature has a marked effect on microbial activity and organic matter decomposition. Once below 10°C the release of nitrogen suitable for plant growth slows markedly and rapid growth for permanent pastures is only restored when soils warm again in spring.

Applying DoloZest or CalciZest in late summer or early autumn ensures rapid decomposition of the dung and dead grasses that have accumulated on the soil surface during summer providing the maximum time to establish optimum pasture covers prior to winter.

For advice on product application rates for your property and information on how CalciZest and DoloZest can improve the productivity of your farm phone 0800 843 809.

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