4 tips for a hefty hay and silage season

One crucial rule of thumb in farming is to always plan ahead. Failing to do so will only lead to poor yield and crop quality, something that will see a hefty sum of money go down the drain.

This is true for any crop one may sow and harvest, including hay and silage. While sticking to a suitable rotation throughout winter will see you through, there are still some important things to consider.

1.    Choose the right pasture

Pasture selection and preparation is an important consideration to maximise the production potential of silage. While there are a number of factors that can influence the pasture including climate, agronomic constraints and the silage system that will be used, farmers should firstly consider what best suits their whole farm program.

"Low quality forage is unlikely to become good quality silage, so it is important that farmers consider the management of their pasture, the growth stage at harvest, as well as wrapping the bales sufficiently for storage," says KUHN Farm Machinery Managing Director, Bruno Fetiveau.

2.    Pick and spread fertilisers wisely

Because application of fertiliser can have major implications on the quality and quantity of silage, another key consideration is the soil and plant fertiliser requirements.

Nitrogen and potassium levels need to be managed to maximise yield as well and feed quality. Hay and silage production absorbs a lot of potassium from the soil, so an application in early spring may be required.

Nitrogen levels also need to be monitored closely, and top dressed to individual yield requirements. To address this, Fetiveau encourages farmers to soil test their pastures before sowing and during the growth stages to ascertain the fertility of their paddocks.

3.    Control weeds and pests early

During paddock preparation and throughout the pasture growth stages, weed and pest management is an important consideration.

Hay and silage making can be used as a highly effective weed control strategy, however, established weeds in silage or hay pastures can reduce feed quality and in some cases, be toxic to livestock.

Weeds should be controlled early-on to avoid infestations. The main weeds to consider include Capeweed, Fireweed and Patersons Curse.

The same applies to managing disease or insect damage. Common pests such as aphids and diseases such as rust can dramatically impact yield and feed quality.

4.    Assess machinery needs

Finally, take a good look at machinery needs and plan for any servicing, maintenance or repairs, so you’re not let down in the middle of harvest.

Growers will need to weigh up investing in machinery or utilising the services of a contractor, and that all depends on the volume and duration of their harvest. Look for the latest machinery innovations and precision agriculture software as they make hay and silage production much more efficient and profitable.

KUHN offers a large range of reliable products for hay and silage production. The company has a wide variety of agricultural machinery including vertical tillage systems, power harrows, fertiliser spreaders, sprayers, mowers, rakes, balers and wrappers that are all designed and manufactured using cutting edge technology.