3 key elements to consider NOW to create a sufficient feed wedge
Wouldn’t you agree that planning ahead in Autumn is integral, yet often overlooked? At Webber & Chivell we understand your concerns about the stress of planning ahead for a good pasture season, especially as we roll into another busy and dry month. Here are the 3 key elements to consider now, to set yourself up for a successful season and not miss out on a sufficient feed wedge for the upcoming season.
- The secret to balanced soil nutrients
Your soil is the foundation for your farm’s productivity. Therefore, understanding your soil’s needs is essential. Knowing what nutrients it lacks or has in excess is crucial for balancing fertility, and ensuring strong pasture growth and creating the best possible conditions for your pastures to thrive. A well-managed soil leads to better yields, healthier livestock, and long-term sustainability.
5 steps to follow:
- Soil testing: A soil test identifies nutrient levels, pH, organic matter content, and soil structure problems. Regular testing helps to track changes over time.
- Balancing nutrients: Deficiencies can, obviously, limit growth. While excess nutrients could lead to imbalances or runoff issues. The right balance supports healthy root development and plant uptake.
- Managing pH levels: The ideal level for pasture growth is a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Apply lime to improve these levels when required.
- Soil structure: Good soil structure improves root growth and water retention. Organic matter and microbes are important elements to consider. Gypsum may also be beneficial on sodic soils.
Contact your webber & Chivell agronomist to help you balance soil nutrients and find the best way to improve soil structures.
- Pasture density – holding strong
Webber & Chivell’s agronomists are keeping a close eye on pasture density as we are transition into autumn. With a solid summer behind us, we want to ensure we grow enough feed on-farm and maintain a quality wedge. Balancing the feed availability is important to sustain livestock performance, optimise pasture utilization, and setting up for strong growth heading into winter.
Grazing at the right pasture cover across paddocks once the autumn break hits is important. Establishing the right pasture rotation to stimulate optimal regrowth, March pasture LER (Leaf Emergence Rate), and growth rates must be determined. Want to learn more? Contact Webber & Chivell.
- Maize harvest – Coming off soon
It’s nearly time to get the headers rolling! Getting the timing right is important. The high temperatures this season has resulted in maize finishing off quickly. Harvesting at the right time is important and makes a difference in quality and yield. Not sure on the right moment? Contact Webber & Chivell’s agronomists.
Important considerations for the upcoming month:
- Consider re-sowing: getting pastures back into top shape (post maize)
- Autumn fertiliser applications: Make sure nutrient levels are where they need to be.
