Grass Sward Aftercare

This post was written by

Barry Murray MSc | Chief Agronomist Goldcrop Limited

 

In order to keep grass swards yielding at their best potential then it is important to manage them correctly.  Use of ‘Easy Care’ Teagasc bred varieties such as Oakpark are designed to meet the needs of intensively stocked farms as they are able to withstand poaching and, when mixed with highly digestible tetraploids such as Astonenergy, are able to extend intervals whilst keeping the grass nice and leafy.

Ongoing dock control is extremely important.  If clover is an important constituent of the sward then only Eagle of Prospect can be considered.

If clover is less important then products such as Doxstar Pro or Pastor Trio can be used.    A slightly cheaper product on the market this year is Pasture Pack.  This is a co formulation of Thrust and Tandus which offers excellent control of docks, thistles and general grassland weeds and can be used up to 4 days prior to silage cutting. It can also be used as a spot treatment option.

Derogation will provide challenges in the year ahead for livestock farmers but clover is a valuable part of a sward.  Mixtures have to include 0.6 kg/acre of clover going ahead but mixtures should be designed to be ‘easy care’ maximising grass intake whilst allowing high livestock numbers on the land.  Ongoing control of docks and other weeds should feature as part of any management strategy of a progressive dairy farm.