GrowHow cautions against knee-jerk response in fertiliser planning
Reducing fertiliser use could cost far more than it saves, warns GrowHow UK - the only UK fertiliser manufacturer.
Independent market research, announced by GrowHow at the Dairy and Livestock Event points to 42% of grassland farmers considering reducing fertiliser usage in 2009 whilst 51% anticipate no change and 7% are likely to increase usage.
"We do believe that many farmers, especially in the dairy sector, have scope to make savings on their fertiliser use - this can often be achieved by making better use of their organic nutrients and more attention to soil analysis," said Ken Bowler, Marketing Manager of GrowHow.
"However, any reduction in use has to be thought through as a sound management decision; not just a knee-jerk reaction.
"The market research does have some encouraging pointers on farmers' intentions. Of those contemplating reducing use, 65% cite rising prices as one of their reasons, however, 43% are doing so on the basis of soil or plant analysis. Of those looking to increase use over half are doing so as a result of soil or plant analysis.
"This confirms our belief that there is scope to optimise fertiliser use as part of an overall nutrient plan."
Grass, whether grazed or conserved, is still an economical source of energy for ruminant livestock and deserves to be managed well. The GrowHow stand at the Dairy Event aims to highlight areas that farmers should focus on, with the theme 'Test it, Spread it, Grow it'.
Testing of soil, as well as slurries and manures, is needed to establish levels of required and available plant nutrients. GrowHow Advice as well as services such as soil testing, malate:sulphate analysis and EnCompass nutrient planning software help farmers to understand their soil status and calculate the nutrient requirement for optimum yield. These services also ensure compliance with regulations, such as NVZs, and so protect the environment.
GrowHow Advice & Services are provided by FACTS-qualified GrowHow Advisers and Distributor Fieldsmen who can help tailor fertiliser rates to specific crop and field conditions to ensure optimum returns.
Whilst recognising high input costs Mr Bowler comments: "As with every aspect of a farm business, careful management and attention to detail will ensure costs are kept to a minimum, while protecting the business for the future."
To further support careful management and following extensive dialogue with the farming unions, especially the NFU and NFU Scotland, GrowHow has introduced new competitive options within its finance scheme. This is designed especially for livestock farmers and enables them to purchase fertiliser when required. The finance options offer competitive fixed interest rates together with cash flow matched fixed repayment dates.
For further advice please download these topic cards:
Good management turns grass into cash - Test it. Spread it. Grow it. 
(1089kb)
Soil, slurry and forage analysis means better value for every fertiliser £ invested - Test to Save (168kb)
Accurate application saves money and protexts yield - Spread Well (187kb)
