Be precise with spring dairy diets

Getting cow nutrition right this spring is more critical than ever, given the low milk price. By feeding to maximise butterfat and protein, while optimising animal health, producers can claw back much-needed value

clock • 6 min read
Spring grass has very high rumen degradable protein oils, and sugars, which can cause problems for herds.
Image:

Spring grass has very high rumen degradable protein oils, and sugars, which can cause problems for herds.

As spring turnout looms, many farmers will be looking to maximise the cheapest feed on their farm – fresh grass. But with that comes the risk of acidosis, lower milk fat, reduced fertility, scours and...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Dairy

OPINION: Grass has started growing but is it too late to get it in the clamp?
Dairy

OPINION: Grass has started growing but is it too late to get it in the clamp?

Livestock specialist, Katie Fallon, discusses the joy of grass growth but the challenge of the changing seasons

Katie Fallon
Katie Fallon
clock 16 September 2026 • 1 min read
What's in store at this year's UK Dairy Day
Dairy

What's in store at this year's UK Dairy Day

The UK Dairy Day, taking place on Wednesday, September 16 at the Telford International Centre in Shropshire, is now in its 12th year

Farmers Guardian
Farmers Guardian
clock 16 September 2026 • 8 min read
How to extend farm forage supplies and boost dairy yields in a drought year
Dairy

How to extend farm forage supplies and boost dairy yields in a drought year

With winter forage stocks under pressure due to this summer's drought, we hear from Philippa Merchant, blends co-ordinator at Mole Valley Feed Solutions, how adding a moist feed to ration could be the solution

Katie Fallon
Katie Fallon
clock 14 September 2026 • 2 min read