Riverine Plains Blog

Key messages:

• fodder demand and pricing will be impacted by predicted warmer and drier conditions and declining livestock prices over the coming months
• producing quality fodder depends on the timing of cutting and the interval to baling or ensiling
• take into account the stock class to which fodder will be fed and the timing of it; this will ensure that the fodder is harvested at a time that maximises quality and/or quantity

Key points

Key points 

• Introduce stock slowly to grazing cereal and canola/brassica crops  
• Feed test to know the quality of your crop 
• Avoid nutrient imbalances when grazing young crops by providing a mineral/salt lick and roughage 
• Know the signs of nutrient-related animal health disorders. 

While some farmers have already started grazing winter forage crops, some later-sown crops will only be ready for grazing now. Cereals are ready to be grazed when they have developed secondary roots and are well anchored, usually around the 3-leaf stage.