Maximising the benefits of slurry and soil sampling on drystock farms
Slurry provides a rich source of nutrients to grow grass and its potential is enhanced on farms in early spring applications. Niall Kerins, Teagasc Tralee, outlines more.
In terms of low emission slurry application this spring, 6 - 8 units of nitrogen can be gained from 1000 gallons of good quality cattle slurry along with 5 units of phosphorus and 25 units of potassium available respectively. It is important to know from January 2023 - farms with a grassland stocking rate of 150 Kg’s/Organic nitrogen or higher need to apply organic manure through low emission slurry equipment.
In the coming months many dry stock farmers will be applying slurry on their grazing platforms – getting the best value from slurry is crucial especially given the high costs of chemical fertiliser. Where should I apply slurry to get maximum benefit on my farm? Slurry is a valuable source of nutrients so use it wisely. Evaluate recent soil test results available to you and apply slurry on fields that can be travelled on and with a low index for phosphorous and potassium. Review your Teagasc coloured soil fertility maps and where possible select paddocks that are shaded pink or blue, as these paddocks are index one or two respectively for phosphorous or potassium.
Every farm needs to have a nutrient management plan and up to date soil sample results available. This makes you compliant with EU nitrate directive regulations and also offers the best advice when applying fertilisers. Expired soil samples may leave you in a situation with a no chemical phosphorus allowance on your farm.
When is the best time to take soil samples? This time of year poses a perfect opportunity as most paddocks/silage ground has not received any chemical or organic forms of fertiliser for at least three-four months. Soil samples last for four years and a sample taken in 2023 needs to be taken in every 4 hectares of land.
It is important to familiarise yourself with your 2023 nutrient management plan along with new EU nitrate directive rules that come into effect in 2023 which could impact on your farming practices. Seek advice from your local advisor or come along to the Teagasc Nitrates, Banding and CAP 2023 information events happening across the country.