Reseed it and Feed it - Get Results from what you Sow
Before Reseeding
Do you have a recent soil test result? It’s a vital starting point.
Take action if the pH is below 6.0. Target a pH of 6.2. Give lime plenty of time to work; if applied before reseeding ensure it can be cultivated in. Make sure P and K are supplied as needed. If K is index 0, apply a maximum of 80-90 kg/ ha at cultivation/planting and remainder later.
Typical Lime Amounts (Lime t/ha)
P and K reseed requirements (kg/ha)
Nitrogen for reseeding (kg/ha)
*Keep rate lower if the sown sward is under competition from weeds/volunteers or existing sward
Feeding the New Ley
Maintaining the nutrient status will help to retain the sown species, as well as optimising production. The establishment P and K can be deducted from the season’s requirement for silage, grazing or hay. But do add any P and K above this if required, to ensure the sward does not become deficient.
Silage (conservation)
*Leave enough time for the N to be utilised by the plant – 2.5kg N/day, as a rule of thumb. So 5 weeks = 35 days = 87kg N/ha maximum
New leys are very likely to respond to sulphur so it is a vital addition
Grass-clover swards – N isn’t always needed, although White Clover can cope with some, ensure the P and K is replenished, manures are useful here. A sulphur source without N would be a great extra addition.
Grazing
Aim for moderate but regular N dressings rather than big doses, 30-40 kg N/ha for first & second dressing, then around 30kg/ha. Include Sulphur at 40-60 kg SO3/ha over the season, to a maximum of 125kg/ha. Sulphur will help increase yield, sugar and protein and may enhance plant disease resistance.
