Business Case
Growing roughage with a feeling for the soil
Dairy farmers who consciously deal with roughage cultivation invariably achieve higher yields. The Recycling Guide makes this very clear. We can no longer camouflage anything with over-fertilization, it now comes down to craftsmanship.
That craftsmanship starts with focusing on and getting a feel for the ground. The following aspects are central to this:
Organic matter is the engine
Organic matter acts as the engine of the soil. Sufficient organic matter is important for the structure, workability, air and water management, binding and supply of nutrients and a healthy soil life.
A crop of silage maize extracts an average of 2.500 to 3.000 kg of organic matter from the soil, more than the crop residues and organic fertilizer supply supply. Rotational cultivation and a successful catch crop eliminate the shortage.
Crop rotation for organic matter conservation
Continuous cultivation is by definition unfavorable for all crops. Crop rotation of silage maize with grass, arable crops, fodder beets or field beans offers great benefits, including:
- Organic matter is maintained
- Weed pressure drops
- Soil structure is spared
- Healthier soil life
Economical on the structure
Damage to the soil structure results in direct loss of yield. This effect was clearly visible after the heavy rain showers in 2016. Only cultivate maize land in the spring under good conditions. Sometimes this means exercising patience. Sow a variety of maize that is ripe in the field concerned at the beginning of September to avoid muddling during harvest.
More practical tips about forage cultivation?
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- View the LG variety overview en the new LG 31 generation;
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