Tama Assist Soil health: The foundation of successful hay farming
Healthy soil provides several important things for your forage and hay crops:
- Promotes stronger root systems
- Improves water retention, prevents run-off and reduces erosion
- Increases availability of nutrients to your crop
- Prevents soil compaction
Unfortunately, many modern farming practices lead to soil degradation. By focussing on improving soil through conservation farming, you can reverse this trend and set your hay farm up for success.
1. Rotate your crops
Every season, rotate the crops planted in the same fields. For example, growing legumes like alfalfa- or clover-containing forage mixes can add natural nitrogen to your soil. Reducing fertiliser use, this natural nitrogen will benefit the crops growing in the same field the following season.
2. Use cover crops
Consider combining cover crops with monocultures like fruit orchards. Cover crops are alternative crops grown specifically to protect and improve the soil, attract beneficial insects and suppress weed growth.
3. Composting and mulching
Compost and mulch are beneficial soil improvements for soil health. It adds organic matter, enhances water retention, and provides a slow-release source of nutrients for your hay crops.
4. Reduce tilling
Tilling disrupts soil structure and harms beneficial microorganisms. Consider no-till or minimal tillage methods when establishing new hay crops or planting grain crops. These approaches help preserve soil structure and organic matter.
5. Manage pests wisely
Instead of relying on chemical pesticides, adopt an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. This might include strategies like:
· Mowing at strategic times to control weeds
· Encouraging natural predators by planting biological borders
· Using targeted herbicide applications only when necessary
By reducing the dependence on chemicals, you’ll protect the diverse ecosystem of beneficial organisms above and below the soil.
6. Test your soil regularly
Implement a routine soil testing program for your hay crop fields. Data about nutrient levels, pH, and organic matter content can help to make informed decisions about fertilisation and other applications. This prevents over-application, which can harm soil health and your budget.
7. Graze carefully
Implement a rotational grazing system on your forage crops and grassland. This prevents overgrazing and allows for timely crop regrowth, promoting root development and soil health.
8. Maintain proper pH
Hay crops can be sensitive to soil pH. Regular liming based on soil test recommendations helps maintain optimal pH levels. This ensures efficient nutrient availability and uptake and promotes beneficial soil microbial activity.
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Soil fertility is not a once-off effort but an ongoing farming style. If you’re interested in sustainable agriculture, contact the Tama team who will share advice for hay farmers and guide you on sustainable netwrap and twine for hay baling.