If you want better, more profitable results from your new grass this autumn, it might be a good idea to try and slow down the pasture renewal process. 

 

Following these guidelines below can literally add years to the life of new pasture, says pasture systems manager Will Henson.

 

“The question we ask farmers is this: if we offered you three more years of pasture persistence in exchange for you spending an extra two weeks getting pasture establishment perfect, would you take it?”

 

Many farmers are time poor in autumn, meaning pasture establishment can often be rushed, but Will says this is one job that will reward you for taking the time to get it right.

 

“When it is done right, sowing new grass and clover gives a return on investment few other areas of farm spending can match, as much as 50% per annum. That’s because it provides tonnes of extra high quality feed for as little as 10c/kg DM.”

 

1. Choose the right paddock(s), which will give the highest gains for the lowest cost.
2. Correct underlying problems that caused the original pasture to run out in the first place.
3. Use the right renewal method for your farm system.
4. Pick the correct pasture cultivars and endophyte for your farm system.
5. Sow seed carefully, including creating a good seedbed and sowing at the right depth.
6. Manage new pasture well through the first 12 months until it is fully established.