Kill docks after first cut to optimise total silage yields

UK - April 27, 2010



Controlling weeds in grass silage crops after first cut is vital to optimise total silage yields this year, says independent grassland specialist Charlie Morgan.

“With lower first cut grass yields expected due to the late, cold spring, and silage stocks low or non-existent on most farms, farmers will be looking to big second cuts to make up any shortfall,” says Mr Morgan.

“Grass started growing three or four weeks later than normal in many parts of the UK due to low temperatures. This will significantly reduce yield of first cut crops, based on traditional cutting dates.

“For early silage-makers second cuts could yield more than normal as long as moisture does not become a limiting factor. Applying fertiliser and controlling weeds post first cut will help optimise yields.”

Docks are the main concern in silage crops as a 10% infestation will lead to a 10% yield loss – equivalent to one trailer load in ten.

“The late start, April night frosts and stop-start growth rates have reduced opportunities to spray weeds before first cut,” explains David Roberts, grassland technical manager for Dow AgroSciences.

“The next opportunity to treat docks is around three weeks after first cut – when weeds are growing fast at the same growth stage. A translocated herbicide, like Doxstar, which works right down into the long tap root, will kill the whole plant and allow grass to re-colonise the ground where they were growing.

“Unlike products based on older chemistry – Doxstar is also grass-safe and will not knock growth when growing as much grass as possible is a priority.”