For the best results, NutriFibre fields should be managed differently from other ryegrass fields. Therefore, the instructions stated below related to field preparation, right soil type, optimal fertilising and correct harvesting methods contribute to a high forage yield. This NutriFibre crop management manual provides you with the necessary information to get the most out of your NutriFibre grass.
Field requirements |
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| Weed pressure |
Select field with low weed pressure or make use of a false seed bed. |
| Soil structure | Loosen up deep soil levels because the roots must be able to grow deep. |
| Seedbed | Prepare a fine and firm seedbed. |
Sowing recommendations |
|
| Sowing period | March - April and August - September |
| Soil temperature | > 12C |
| Seed rate* | 50 - 60 kg/ha |
| Sowing depth | 0.5 - 1.5 cm |
| Row distance |
< 8 cm |
*If no clovers are included in the mixture, 6-8 kg of red clover or 2-3 kg of white clover can be added.
Management after sowing |
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| Time to establish |
NutriFibre establishes slow since it first builds a deep root system, contributing to excellent drought tolerance. |
|
Management after sowing (1) |
Spray to tacle broad-leaved weeds when grasses are > 5 cm. |
|
Management after sowing (2) |
Don’t apply slurry or animal manure in the period between sowing and the 1st cut. |
| First cut after sowing | Harvest the 1st cut after sowing when grass is not higher than 15 cm. |
| Autumn maintenance |
The optimal stubble length of 9 - 10 cm grass height should be reached before winter. |
Fertilization recommendations per cut per hectare* |
|
| Nitrogen (N) | 90 kg |
| Phosphate (PO4) | 30 kg |
| Potassium (K2O) | 96 kg |
| Magnasium Oxide (MgO) | 10 - 28 kg |
| Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) | 320 kg per year |
*The exact amounts depend on country and soil type. Analyse the soil to set up a fertilizer plan.
Harvesting recommendations |
|
| Moment of harvest | 3000 - 3500 kg DM/ha |
| Cutting height | > 8 cm |
| Cutting interval | 4 - 5 weeks |
| Field period |
NutriFibre needs less drying time than perennial rye grass. Cut the NutriFibre fields at last and start collecting them at first. |
| Making silage | <30 - 35 % dry matter at least to prevent molding |
| Inoculants | Use silage inoculants for optimal conservation |
Dry matter yield* |
|
| Dry matter yield first year |
2 - 12 ton DM/ha |
|
Dry matter yield from its second year onwards |
Up to 18 ton DM/ha |
*Depending on management and fertilization.
