Preparing the fields for this year’s silage & hay

When asked which seasons we like the most - both Richard and I both agree that we like Spring and Autumn the most.

Preparing the land

Having muck spread late September, the fields have broken down the muck and the nutrients have sunk down into the ground, Springtime means it’s time to Chain Harrowing and Rolling.

Harrowing removes dead thatch, lifts vegetation up and levels any mole hills. Its job is to allow air movement and root aeration which helps the soil to breathe and improves water infiltration. It reduces disease by exposing fungi and bacteria to sunlight which is essential for the health of the pasture. Timing is critical and ideally harrowing and rolling should be undertaken in dry, warm conditions, as the harrows break up and spread any droppings allowing them to dry out and kill any parasites and rolling alleviate soil compaction, promote better root growth, and create a smoother surface for grazing livestock. The aeration effects of rolling can help break up compacted soil and improve water drainage, allowing nutrients to penetrate deeper into the ground.

Harrowing should be carried out as part of any pasture management programme, in the spring preferably after grazing in conjunction with rolling. The line markings of harrowing and rolling are a true sign of spring!

Then with moderate rain and good sunshine, our paddocks, fields & meadow will flourish.

If you have good quality pasture, paddock or meadowland, the substrate for making hay is all around you. Grass comes into its own and is at its most nutritious in mid to late June.

From that point in the season farmers carefully scrutinize the weather forecasts to find the ideal run of clear dry weather which is essential for drying.

Weather is the single biggest factor affecting the success of silage & haymaking, it is vital to have optimal weather to ensure that your cut grass will dry. You will need around 5 days to ensure that the moisture in the grass is reduced. Cutting, spreading, turning, lining up in rows and baling up.

This year, 2023 proved better than last – we decided to cut earlier.

As they say, when making winter fodder it’s best made when the sun shines!! 🌞🌞🌞🌞