Field Options has published its 2022 Grass, Clover and Forage Crop Guide which, in addition to providing full details of the company’s specialist grazing, silage and forage crop seed mixtures, also contains a wealth of useful agronomic advice to help livestock farmers maximise milk and meat production from homegrown forage.

“As a result of burgeoning feed, fuel and fertiliser prices, many dairy farmers are looking, with renewed interest, to maximise the milk their herds produce from homegrown forage,” explains Field Options manager, Francis Dunne.

“Likewise, a significant proportion of beef and sheep farmers are reassessing their cropping and grassland management strategies to find new ways to cut costs and improve production efficiencies.

The new guide which, in addition to providing details of specialist seed mixtures and associated products, also contains useful information to help livestock farmers maximise the value of their grazing and cutting leys and forage crops.

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Topics covered include guidance on how to get the best results from grass, clover and herbal seed mixtures by reseeding effectively, as well as practical advice on cultivation technique, soil nutrition and soil health, pH and structure.

It also provides advice on pest and weed control and outlines the latest findings from Field Options’ extensive seed mixture trials which show that by making a few simple changes to the composition and management of leys, it is possible to offset rising input costs and reduce fertiliser usage without it having a detrimental impact on productivity.

“Growing and utilising more grass and home-grown forage is key to the profitability and ongoing viability of all ruminant livestock enterprises,” said Mr Dunne, “so we’ve tailored this year’s guide to include a range of topical and thought-provoking advice articles to help livestock farmers make incremental improvements to the way they manage their crops.”

The Grass, Clover and Forage Crop Guide can be viewed and downloaded for free at www.field-options.co.uk. More information and advice is also available by contacting Field Options on 01544 262500 or via email at info@field-options.co.uk.