July 2010 edition
Pasture grazing management through winter
Nathan Shannon, DPI Wodonga
Many farmers across the region have invested significant amounts of time and money into improved pastures species and fertilizer yet prevent these plants performing at their optimum.
Scientific research has proven ryegrass pastures perform best when rotationally grazed based on leaf stage. The maximum net growth rate of pasture occurs between the two and three leaf stage of the ryegrass plant, as such many people choose to graze their pastures when they have grown three leaves as this combines maximum yield and quality.
However there are risks involved with grazing at the three leaf stage. If the next best feed is at the three leaf stage and there is an event which prevents grazing, such as significant rain (which would cause paddock to pug), or if there are not enough stock to graze the pasture, then the pasture will begin to loose quality as the oldest leaves begin to decay.
In order to manage this risk it may be best to set a grazing rotation based on a leaf stage between two and three leaves, depending on your farms risks (wet farm or low stocking rate). You will grow less pasture over the year but you will be in a better position to manage its quality. There is no one right answer for rotation length through this period as it really does depend on your farm, your perception of the weather forecasts and your attitude to managing risk.
To discuss your risks, pasture and crop management, contact your local dairy extension officer.
