Although grass growth remains significantly below expectations for early May, the overriding message based on this week's data is to get the cows out and make full use of the high quality grazing that is now there. Grazed grass is now the first choice forage, over and above any remaining silage stocks or alternative feeds, provided supplies are available. It will also be more cost effective in the long run to open up some of the silage ground for grazing than to restrict cows at this stage. The latest Grazing Monitor data shows a doubling of growth rates since the previous sampling, and continuing warmer weather is accelerating the process further. Fibre is also on the increase, and is now at a level that should hold up butterfat and avoid scouring risks, reducing the reliance on high fibre concentrates and bulky buffer feeds.
Crude protein remains high, which means good supplies of rumen degradable protein in the grass.
All the indications are that soil nitrogen is being utilised by the plants as growth starts to accelerate. Peak grass growth is delayed this season, but should still be achieved eventually, albeit for a shorter period. It is important to maintain fertilizer applications to ensure these peaks are achieved. However, there are signs of growth,and quality is improving, so is vital to make use of what is there and to keep on top of the growth as it begins to accelerate. It is also important to maintain fertilizer regimes in order to ensure continuity of supply later on.