Elements in Irish forages, based on samples analysed over a 4-year period in Johnstown Castle, Wexford. Elements in vitamin-mineral supplements also. Routine supplementation with Trace Elements is also advisable. Farmers should avoid unnecessary use of N, P, K and S fertilisers, as high levels of these Elements in grass can compromise the absorption of Mg and Trace Elements. If they must apply lime to improve their swards, they should also take great care to provide generous supplements of Cu, Co, I and Zn to their cattle and sheep.
Many samples are also low in Ca and Na.
They should not receive Cu supplements except on veterinary advice. Year DM Ca P K Mg N Na S Table 1b. I Zn Mn Co Table 2a. 1.0 18.2 80.5 Very low Low Normal High Table 2b. I Zn Mn Co Table 4a.