Plan 365 October 2015 by Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

OCTOBER 2015

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

NUTRITION

FORAGE AND ARABLE

HORTICULTURE

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Plan 365 is a technical guide aimed at helping shareholders learn about best practice and the latest advancements in rural technology.

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

First drenching of new season lambs “Short-changed” by deﬁnition is to give less than the correct change. This is normally not a problem – if you do not know about it!

From that point forward, lambs will be

praziquantel give liveweight gain but

the most significant source of worm

also reduced dag score, by increasing

eggs infecting pasture and this is why it

faecal consistency over both the other

is so important to ensure lambs get the

groups. There are several effective

Ensuring lambs get the most appropriate

best possible anthelmintic treatment

drenches that can control roundworms

right from the start. Weaning places a

– the level of worm resistance on your

lot of stress on lambs – the combination

farm will dictate either a double or triple

of separation from the ewe, removal

combination. To control tapeworm,

of milk and changing to a pasture

praziquantel is the only active ingredient

based diet weakens their immune

that will kill both the head and segments

systems, all happening at a time when

of the tapeworm. As a good standard

they are already the most susceptible

of practice, it is recommended that

to parasites. This question has been

lamb drenching starts the first couple of

answered in three trials conducted by

drenches with an effective combination

Beef and Lamb in the spring of 2010 in

with an additional specific tape active.

the Manawatu. Lambs were grouped

To follow on, it is recommended to

into untreated (control) triple drench and

continue with an effective combination

triple drench plus praziquantel (specific

– whether this is a double or triple will

tape drench) treatment groups and

depend on your management practice

monitored over 28 days. Across all farms

or the resistance levels on your farm. Do

the triple drench group grew faster than

not get short-changed this spring. There

the controls by a total of 392g, the triple

is pretty good evidence that a pre-wean

and praziquantel grew by 672g and the

drench has production advantages in

triple and praziquantel treated lambs

many situations and that tapeworms can

grew 1.02kg heavier in 28 days than

also reduce liveweight gain and have

untreated controls. A similar result was

potential to increase fly strike, through

first drench may be one of the most significant decisions to affect their future growth, production and the level of pasture contamination on your farm. It is well documented that lamb productivity for new season lambs is where a farmer can be short-changed without even realising. Once lambs hit the ground, the same debates start – as when to drench and should tapeworm products be included. The mainstream advice is that tailing drenches are of little benefit in most situations. The question then is should lambs be drenched prewean or wait until weaning? Lambs are undergoing one of their most significant internal parasite challenges. Pasture will have a high level of worm egg contamination, initially supplied from ewes as their immunity is weakened.

obtained by Southwell et al.

creating more dags on lambs.

in 1996, of 2kg liveweight

For further information, contact

gain over 2 months.

your Farmlands Technical Field

Southwell also demonstrated

Officer or the friendly team at your

that praziquantel was the

local Farmlands store.

only tapeworm product to remove 100 percent

Article supplied by Donaghys Animal Health.

of heads and segments. Not only did the triple and

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Smart dairy calf spring drenching It’s taken a lot of hard work to get your calves through to weaning but don’t take your foot off the accelerator now – internal parasites can significantly affect calf growth. You should put a drench programme in place that uses the right drenches at the right times to ensure your calves continue to achieve good growth rates.

resistant worms surviving drenching and

When should I start drenching my calves?

100kg you can advance to Alliance, a

Calves don’t need to be drenched until they have a worm burden. This isn’t likely to occur until pasture has been their main feed source for at least three weeks – so not until they are weaned in most cases. Don’t administer drench in milk or administer drench to calves around the same time as milk feeding, as there is a greater risk of drench toxicity. Weigh your calves (or a sample of them) prior to

the risk of drench resistance developing. Remember, you shouldn’t use drenches that contain MLs/mectins, such as abamectin, in calves less than 100kg liveweight due to the risk of toxicity. An ideal drench to start with is Scanda. Scanda is a low-dose dual combination drench that contains oxfendazole and levamisole. Once calves are more than low-dose triple combination, which has What type of drench should I be using in these young calves? Using an oral combination drench is the way to go. Oral drenches are recommended over pour-ons, especially in young cattle, as pour-on absorption and efficacy has been shown to be variable in recent trials. Each drench family kills worms by a

drenching so that you get the dose right.

different method, so combinations of two

Which worms do I need to worry about in calves?

families are more effective than single

In calves, there are three gut worm species most likely to interrupt calf growth rates. Cooperia worms are a threat to calves up to 15 months of age – they often cause ‘subclinical’ effects – a decrease in appetite and growth rates without any overt signs that calves are unwell. Ostertagia worms affect the abomasum, or true stomach and are considered the most harmful worms in cattle. Trichostrongylus species can cause problems also, especially in late autumn and winter.

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or more actives from different drench active drenches. Use a drench that contains the actives that are effective against the important worm species in that age of animal. In New Zealand, Cooperia have developed widespread

the addition of abamectin for better efficacy against Ostertagia worms. How often should I be drenching these calves? Cattle in their first year of life are more susceptible to worms and are the biggest contaminators of pasture with worm eggs. A planned drenching programme at 28 day intervals from weaning, with an effective short-acting combination drench, is usually recommended to avoid production losses due to worms and to help control pasture contamination. For more information, please talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Coopers.

resistance to both the ML/mectins and white drenches, so you should include levamisole in your combination drench for calves and young cattle. Macrocylic lactones/avermectins (MLs/mectins) are considered to be the best drench family for Ostertagia worms. Use of combination drenches reduces the probability of

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Once combined, twice as good The Film&Film Wrapping System is a new dual film technology that delivers superior quality silage through greater bale density and an enhanced oxygen barrier. This innovative step-change in baling and wrapping practices is the latest advancement in baled silage preservation. In addition to improved silage quality, the Film&Film System provides further benefits in terms of minimised forage waste and reduced environmental impact. This innovative new practice involves the combined use of Baletite net replacement film alongside Silotite balewrap. Baletite replaces the traditional netwrap used to bind crops into a bale format. Together these two films form the Film&Film System that offers several valuable benefits. Automation of the feeding process:

Enhanced quality:

Bales wrapped using the Film&Film

Film&Film System bales also benefit

System can be unwrapped quickly and

from an enhanced ensiling process

easily â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if using a bale handler and

resulting in better crop conservation,

mixing wagon, it is possible to feed

thanks to the increased oxygen barrier

out the contents with minimum human

afforded by the additional film layers

intervention.

applied during the baling stage.

Easier recycling:

For further information, contact

The Film&Film System eliminates the need to separate and segregate as both Baletite and the balewrap are

your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

manufactured from the same base material. As such, they can be easily and

Article supplied by AGPAC Feed.

quickly set aside together for recycling.

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DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Maintaining healthy rumen function We all enjoy spring pasture growth, as the pressure comes off average pasture cover and our cows can consume optimal pasture intake. The vat is up and we anticipate that everything will take care of itself. But we all know that nature can throw a few unexpected surprises at us. If we understand what drives those challenges, we can successfully head them off via strategic management before they cause grief. So what should we look out for? Rumen dysfunction It is uncommon to observe lactic acidosis in grazing herds, however there are times when ration balance does challenge rumen health. Spring pastures can be high in sugars and fat (unsaturated fatty acids) – they also tend to be low in physically effective fibre. As the ‘rumen bugs’ break down this readily digestible feed, organic acids are at times produced more rapidly than they can be transported out of the rumen. Transporting organic acids (which are a good thing) out of the rumen is an osmotic process that is dependent upon acids coming into contact with the papillae on the rumen wall and rumen fluid tonicity. Three things interfere with this process: » Low intake of physically effective fibre

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that stimulates greater agitation within the digesta. » High intake of sugars that promote butyric acid, which is known to slow rumen contractions. » Increased intake of potassium, chlorides and soluble protein that take rumen fluid tonicity closer to the tonicity of blood, slowing the rate of organic acid transport across the rumen wall. So what do we observe when this occurs? Nothing that screams your cows are unwell. Fecal output often contains a lot more fluid than you would normally observe – it may also contain a higher degree of undigested feed particles. Post grazing residuals may be higher than you would expect and milk solid yield may be a little down on what you would anticipate from the amount of feed on offer. How can we address this challenge? Offering a source of digestible, physically effective fibre is a good start. Feeds such as oaten hay tend to be more effective than straw. You don’t need huge volumes, 1kgDM per cow daily is often adequate. Swap high sugar content feeds for products that contain slowly degradable starch – essentially, cereal grain based products that contain substantial quantities of maize. Include a mineral buffer in your ration that has a longer rumen retention time than sodium bicarbonate. High MUN

pasture will be converted to ammonia by the ‘rumen bugs’. Some of this ammonia will be incorporated into microbial protein while any surplus will diffuse into blood. Ammonia is converted to urea at the liver and is transported by blood for recycling purposes or to be deposited into urine or milk, hence rations high in soluble crude protein contribute to increased MUN results. Leaf stage at grazing will influence soluble crude protein content of pastures. Grazing before 2.5 leaf stage will spike MUN, as will short rotations when nitrogen fertilisers have been applied (remember the 18 days postnitrogen application grazing rule of thumb). Other ration strategies will only reduce MUN if we can increase milk protein yield. Feeds that increase blood glucose and insulin concentrations are required to achieve this and feeds containing slowly degraded starch offer the greatest promise. Keep analysing pasture samples for nutrient balance during spring and observe what cow health and production is telling you. Make adjustments to your rations as required and you will avoid the potential challenges of spring production.

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Inghams.

This may be the least understood measure of recent years. Increased levels of soluble crude protein in spring

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DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Protect assets from bird damage and fires Protecting farm assets and machinery is a real priority right now. As finances tighten, ensuring all farm vehicles and machinery are in top working order is especially important. Birds nesting in equipment and engine bays not only bring in dirt and debris that damage these assets but the nests themselves are also a very real fire risk. Farmers everywhere have spent years battling this problem. Birds would constantly leave droppings and debris all over machinery which, if left, would eventually turn to rust. There is also the worry about the hay and dry grass used for building nests in tractors, potentially causing a fire. Farmers are often forced to spend lots of money on pest control systems that don’t work at all, are toxic or only work for as long as it takes the animals to figure out another way – making many

methods used to repel birds either time consuming or ineffective.

issue of salmonella is a very real concern when rearing calves.

Wingo contains only a special blend of vegetable-based gel, pepper and cinnamon to deter birds for up to two years in covered areas. Birds don’t like the feel of the gel on their claws, while the sharp taste of pepper further alerts the birds to danger. The cinnamon smell then acts as the reminder that the gel is still active, effectively deterring the birds long term.

Aside from Wingo being useful on the farm, there are many uses for this product in residential areas. It can be used in trees and on branches to protect nearby cars and buildings and on guttering, roofs and TV aerials around the house. Anywhere birds are a nuisance are ideal locations for placing Wingo.

The tops of the mirrors, the hydraulic hoses, along the crest of the bonnet and anywhere birds sit on a tractor are good places to apply Wingo. Birds are also identified as high risk pests to food processing operations such as milking sheds. Any faeces in the milking shed and on the milk and air lines is a hygiene and health issue, which is why the presence of birds in these areas is treated so seriously. Calf sheds are another high risk area, as the

It’s ideal for applying in small quantities as needed. It doesn’t matter how long it’s been left unused, the gel always squirts out as good as new.

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Shoof.

WINGO BIRD REPELLENT

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Take advantage of a winning mix for maize A three-way tank mix featuring well known herbicides from Nufarm has proven to be a winner for postemergence weed control in maize grain and silage crops. The mix combines the grass killing power of Latro® 750WG with the broadleaf killing power of Primiera® and the enhanced wetting, spreading and uptake properties of Bonza® spraying oil. The result is outstanding control of a wide range of weeds, including black nightshade and yellow bristle grass. The Latro 750WG, Primiera and Bonza mix also has the advantage of providing a wider application window than the traditional post-emergence herbicide

mix of Latro and Kamba 500. This gives growers more flexibility and convenience with spray timing without compromising their result. A further benefit of the three-way mix is that both Latro 750WG and Primiera perform best when applied with Bonza spraying oil, while Bonza should not be used with Kamba 500. Growers were quick to incorporate the mix into their post-emergence spray programmes for maize grain and silage crop programmes last season and demand is expected to increase again this spring, as word continues to spread about its performance and advantages. Broadleaf weeds controlled by Primiera include chickweed, father, spurrey,

mallow, clover, willow weed, wire weed and seedling docks. Primiera also has action against atrazine resistant fathen. Grass weeds controlled by Latro 750WG include annual grass weeds, couch, ryegrass and other volunteer pasture grasses, kikuyu and barnyard grass. Recommended spray rates are 80-110g/ha Latro 750WG with 150-200ml/ha Primiera, adding Bonza at 500ml to 1L/100L water and applying in 100-300L/ha water. The 1L/100L water rate of Bonza will improve control of annual grasses such as summer grasses. Nufarm Technical Specialist, Paul Addison, says for best results, this mix should be applied before broadleaf weeds have developed past the eight true leaf stage. Summer grass is best controlled at a maximum of three tillers or 75 mm in length. For perennial grass weeds, it’s important to ensure sufficient foliage is present for good coverage. Applying Latro 750WG, Primiera and Bonza to maize more than 500mm high risks crop injury, and the mix should not be used in sweetcorn crops or popping corn. If you want to take your post emergence herbicide programme to the next level this spring, come in and talk to the friendly team at Farmlands today. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Nufarm.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Time to beat weeds for better crop yields One of the best things you can do to enhance the yield of your newly sown forage crops at this time of the year is to monitor for weeds as closely and as often as you can. It doesn’t take long once you get into a routine and it can make a big difference to the ultimate dry matter (DM) yield of the crop. Fast growing and super-competitive, weeds suppress yields from day 1. But with Director™ CS, the newest herbicide from Nufarm, you can get on top of broadleaf and grass weeds in both forage brassicas and fodder beet at the critical pre-emergence stage. Director CS is highly effective against difficult to kill species like shepherd’s purse, wireweed, chickweed and cleavers, so your crop can get a great start. This new herbicide contains the active ingredient clomazone in a special capsule suspension (CS) formulation. Clomazone is by nature a highly volatile active ingredient but Director’s CS formulation significantly reduces this volatility without affecting clomazone’s power to kill weeds. The formulation also improves crop safety, because particles of clomazone are surrounded by a carrier coating that remains dormant until it is activated by moisture. As a result, Director CS can remain effective in the root zone and activate 4 to 6 weeks after application depending on moisture availability.

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Director CS works by being absorbed into the roots and emerging shoots of germinating weeds and stopping photosynthesis. Susceptible weeds may still emerge from the soil but are bleached white and die shortly afterwards. Director CS can be tank mixed with other pre-emergence herbicides to widen the spectrum of weeds controlled. It suits a range of sowing techniques, including direct drilling, drilling into cultivated ground, preplant incorporation into the soil, ridged seed beds and surface seeding of forage and oilseed rape. Fodder beet rates are 150-200ml/ha. Rates for forage brassicas vary depending on the sowing method used. That’s pre-emergence weed control sorted – but what about controlling weeds after your crop seedlings have emerged? In the case of forage brassicas, key post-emergence broadleaf herbicides are Prestige®, Archer ® and Kamba® 500 (registered for kale only), while SeQuence® will take care of grass weeds. Prestige or Archer can be tank mixed with SeQuence for control of both broadleaf and grass weeds in forage brassica crops, with insecticide added if required.

Correct timing and rates are essential for successful control of both pre and post-emergence weeds in spring sown crops. Plant back periods also need to be observed. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Nufarm.

In fodder beet crops, Archer can be used for post emergence broadleaf weed control.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

More convenient with fodder beet “New updates to the label allow even more flexibility in Betanal quattro use for this season,” Bayer CropScience Territory manager Daniel Suddaby says. “The label now has a maximum 5L/ha use rate, which allows farmers to more effectively target larger weeds and some harder to control weeds like spurrey and nettle. The 5L/ha rate should only be used once the beet crop has reached the two true leaf stage,” he adds. Further changes to the label include a reduction in the previous withholding period from 100 to 56 days and increased flexibility regarding compatibility. “Betanal quattro can be tank mixed with the

insecticide Lorsban 50EC, or with the herbicides Pyramin DF and Versatill PowerFlo and with other tank mix partners if that use has shown crop safety. Contact your closest Bayer CropScience representative for more information on compatibility,” Daniel says. “The critical factors for success when using Betanal quattro in fodder beet crops are timing, growth stage of the beet crop and the size, growth rate and species of weeds present. Starting early and targeting weeds that are small and actively growing is most effective.”

“Feedback from farmers who used Betanal quattro last season was very positive” Chris Miln, Bayer CropScience Marketing Manager says. “Feedback on its ease of use and effectiveness at controlling weeds were common themes. The convenience of the four in one formulation reducing complexity, resulting in less drums to handle and saving time was positively received," Chris adds. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Bayer.

When it comes to growing beets there’s nothing like a 4 in 1 for Betanal quattro is the first herbicide available that combines the four most important actives used in beet crops into one convenient product. It’s safe, practical and what’s more provides unsurpassed weed control to allow your big beets to grow even bigger. And the 4 in 1 Betanal quattro formulation saves time, reduces complexity and there’s less containers to transport and dispose of. To get everyone talking about your beets, insist on Betanal quattro from Bayer.

www.growbiggerbeet.co.nz Betanal quattro is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. P8851 and is approved pursuant to the HSNO Act 1996, No. HSR100882. Betanal® quattro is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. © Bayer CropScience 2015.

BAC1455

convenience.

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Grow more at your place this spring. Apply Ballance fertiliser this spring and it won’t just be your productivity that grows. You’ll also grow your Choices Rewards Points or Airpoints Dollars™, your annual Farmlands Bonus Rebate* and your Ballance Rebate*. Plus with our expert in-store and on-farm technical advice, competitive pricing and payment options, you can be sure you’re getting the best value this season. To place your order call 0800 200 600 now, visit your local Farmlands store or head to www.farmlands.co.nz/growmore to find out about increasing your productivity this spring.

*The Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited Bonus Rebate and the Ballance Agri-Nutrients Rebate are subject to the Directors’ discretion. To obtain a copy of Ballance’s Investment Statement call 0800 267 266 or go to www.ballance.co.nz Airpoints Terms and Conditions apply – see www.farmlands.co.nz/airpoints

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Keep your cereal crops clean and green longer DuPont™ Acanto® fungicide controls the common and economically important diseases on barley and wheat to help preserve the yield potential of the crop, whether it’s grain or whole crop silage. DuPont™ Acanto® fungicide contains picoxystrobin which is a second generation strobiluron. It is rapidly absorbed into the leaf cells and moves systemically to protect new growth and help protect against yield robbing disease. Acanto is also an important resistance management tool and should be used in a programme that supports other fungicide groups such as SDHIs (either

always tank mix with a triazole and make no more than two applications per season.

| The picture clearly shows how Acanto® (picoxystrobin) moves in the leaf to protect new growth compared the trifloxystrobin. Acanto® can also move from the vapour phase into the plant and then be transported systemically. Currently no other strobilurons do this, and it means Acanto® stops disease developing over a long period.

seed treatment or foliar applied), which are considered medium to high risk in terms of developing resistance. To reduce the risk of resistance to Acanto,

Acanto is a stand-alone product, meaning growers can choose which mixing partner they use and the treatment rate that best suits their specific needs. This flexibility, along with unique attributes and proven performance makes Acanto a good choice for any cereal spray programme. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by DuPont.

Docks and/or buttercups a problem in your pasture? With spring here, now’s the ideal time for DuPont™ Harmony® 50SG to knock docks and buttercups out of pastures.

freshen up prior to application. This will provide sufficient leaf area for effective uptake.

DuPont™ Harmony® 50SG offers selective control of docks, annual buttercup, creeping (perennial) buttercup and giant buttercup in existing pastures, improving long-term feed quality and production.

Growth of the dock or buttercup plants will cease almost immediately but, visually, symptoms will be most obvious after 30 to 40 days. Grazing the treated area 10 to 14 days after application will help minimise suppression of the pasture.

The product is absorbed through the foliage, so pasture should be allowed to

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Harmony 50SG can be tank mixed with other herbicides such as MCPA, MCPB,

2-4D and 2,4-DB. Follow up treatments may be necessary depending on the extent of the initial weed problem. Do not apply if the pasture is under stress. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by DuPont.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Do fungicides pay on cereal silage crops? Whole crop cereal silage can provide a valuable source of feed and creates the opportunity to substantially increase the amount of feed produced from an area of land.

the grain fill period. Bigger and cleaner grains can significantly improve both yield and ME. Surprisingly, there is limited trial data supporting the use of fungicides on cereal silage crops. This prompted Syngenta to conduct two replicated small plot trials in Mid and South Canterbury last season, to quantify the yield benefits of using fungicides on barley grown for silage.

With barley having a shorter maturity than triticale or wheat, barley silage offers more flexibility in a variety of farming systems. With a wide sowing window and short cropping period of approximately 100 days from planting to cut, barley offers greater opportunity to get another crop in the ground, increasing returns per hectare.

The trials compared three treatments – 1) nil fungicide, 2) a single application of 400ml Proline® at GS25 (mid tillering) and, 3) a two spray programme of 400ml Proline® at GS25 followed by 400ml Proline® plus 600ml Seguris Flexi® at GS35 (mid stem extension).

Cereal silage is frequently grown without fungicides, which can significantly reduce the yield potential. With approximately 60 percent of barley silage yield coming from the grain, barley crops grown for silage will benefit from staying clean and green through

The additional 2.14 t/ha of dry matter from the two spray programme equates to $317.00/ha margin over chemical

Fungicide Trial Results

Dry Matter Yield (t/ha) (Average of 2 replicated trials) 18 16

15.84% 14.34% 13.7%

14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0

Untreated

400ml Proline @ GS25

400ml Proline @ GS23 fb 400ml Proline + 600ml Seguris Flexi

| Source: Syngenta trials 2014/15 season – Rakaia and Timaru (variety Garner).

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cost, compared to $90.00/ha for the single spray programme. This highlights the benefit of applying fungicides to silage crops to maximise dry matter production and increase margins. The withholding period for Seguris Flexi® on cereal silage is 28 days, however, because Proline® has a 42 day withholding period for silage, the Proline plus Seguris Flexi treatment must be applied no later than 42 days prior to harvest. If withholding period is a concern, the Proline in the second spray with Seguris Flexi could be substituted with 440ml/ha Folicur® which has a withholding period of only 28 days. Correct harvest timing is important to ensure optimal yield, quality and ensiling conditions. Silage crops should be harvested at 35-40 percent dry matter (cheesy dough stage). Interestingly, a secondary benefit provided by the Seguris Flexi treatment was a wider window for cutting, which can often be difficult to get right if the weather is against you, or when relying on a contractor. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Syngenta.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

A total weed control programme Farmers and growers, are you looking for a better plant burndown spray out of your pasture this season? Are you faced with poor broadleaf weed control, unreasonable plant back and grazing restrictions? Sharpen® is BASF’s breakthrough herbicide, delivering broader spectrum weed control and faster burndown. It’s a cost effective additive to enhance your WeedMaster® glyphosate spray. Sharpen ensures a great kill of a wider range of broadleaf weeds that WeedMaster glyphosate alone cannot control. With many pasture based farmers facing tough economic times this coming season, it is vital that every dollar spent maximises returns. Hard to kill weeds such as broadleaf docks, catsear, buttercups, dandelions, fumitory, mallows, nightshades, plantains, shepherd's purse and spurrey (yar) are just some of the weeds hit hard when Sharpen is used with WeedMaster glyphosate. As Sharpen is compatible with all formulations of WeedMaster glyphosate, there is no need to change from your favourite brand. Just make sure you add the recommended rate of Hasten™, the preferred esterified canola oil adjuvant and you're well on the way to a superior burndown spray result. Sharpen now has a new label registration of nil milk withholding, 2 day grazing and 14 day meat slaughter withholding periods. Couple this with faster burndown and you are on to a winner. The benefits don't stop there either, short plant back times for most crops, along

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with a simple flush out of the spray tank rather than a full decontamination will keep you well onside with your spray contractor or operator. Sharpen enhances WeedMaster glyphosate when used at a lower rate, yet becomes a residual herbicide when used at higher rates. This is where it really comes into its own in maize and sweetcorn crops and is especially smart on problem weeds such as fathen. Sharpen offers strong residual control of weeds that in many instances the older chemistry can no long offer. Cleaner crops mean healthier crops and most importantly higher yields. Problem grass and broadleaf weeds meet their match The ability of Arietta® herbicide to deliver cleaner, more profitable maize and sweet corn crops has set the stage for strong demand in the post-emergence market this season. Growers who have used the new herbicide have been impressed with subsequent broadleaf weed and grass weed control – particularly for the likes of yellow bristle grass and difficult grassweeds in sweetcorn crops, BASF Waikato Territory Manager John Haliday says. “They’re getting great results and no longer need to worry about having to make applications early to small grass and broadleaf weeds, with Arietta these applications have a much wider window.”

growers often end up making two post emergence passes over the crop to get a good kill of late grass weeds in particular. Growers planting maize and sweetcorn crops this season can now look forward to a total programme when it comes to weed control, with Sharpen as the initial burndown combination with WeedMaster glyphosate and also in combination with acetochlor for their residual pre-emergence tank mix. If post-emergence follow up weed control is required to specifically target late germinating broadleafs and grasses, they can now turn to Arietta to provide that solution. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by BASF.

Alternative actives need to be applied when weeds are at earlier stages of growth to achieve control. John says

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Relish red clover increasing the bottom line The inclusion of a red clover system on Alan and Paul Murray’s farm in Otago has increased lamb weights at sale, gained them an extra $7.00–$10.00 per head over grass based systems and has delivered multiple animal health benefits. In Lawrence, Otago, father and son duo Alan and Paul, run 3,300 breeding ewes, 140 breeding cows and 130 finishing cattle on their 720ha farm. They used to sell 600–700 store lambs per year but now they have the feed available to fatten all their lambs on red clover. Their limited flat land had meant prior to their red clover crops, they did not have a system that was able to produce enough feed, as the rest of the property is quite steep. Having tried forage rape in the past, Alan and Paul found two problems, “one is that we have to spray for aphids and the second is the cost, as brassicas are only in the ground for one season”. Red clover has offered a 2–3 year crop option, nitrogen fixing qualities and a high production crop. A mix of Relish (14kg/ha Superstrike) red clover and Tribute white clover (4kg/ha Superstrike) was direct drilled with fertiliser under the seed. Being a multi-year crop, it is important to manage and look after it to ensure it persists. Grasses in these crops are a weed and can out compete the clover. Alan and Paul manage this by using GallantTM for the grasses and Select for thistle control. It’s also recommended that paddocks are monitored with soil testing and P, K,

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and S applied as needed to maximise clover growth potential. Relish and Sensation production is maximised when grazed rotationally and during the growing season, grazing from around 20–25cm to 4cm. With such rapid spring growth, it’s important to never let red clover build up too much stem, as this will reduce quality for the grazing animal and if too advanced, will reduce silage quality. In autumn, hard graze to clean up residual stems and reduce clover cover that may increase disease presence in winter. Alan and Paul have been extremely pleased with the results of the red clover system. Over the last two summers the lambs have consistently been putting on an average of 300 grams per day, with some achieving 400 grams per day. These gains have culminated in an additional $7.00–$10.00 per head and killing them on average 1.5kg heavier than when on grass. Alan and Paul have also increased the weight of the

freezer ewes for lambing on red clover. Traditionally, these have been killed at 26kg and now they are killed at 32kg (carcass weight) over the same time period. “We don’t see any scouring at all, no daggy lambs and haven’t had any fly problems – and there doesn’t appear to be any adjustment period going onto the clover.” Alan and Paul’s aim is to graze and fatten all lambs on red clover, so the duo are looking to increase the area sown in red clover from 14ha to 20ha. Red clover allows them to fatten all their lambs on a smaller area, have them gone by mid April and lets the grass on the rest of the farm to build cover. “We wonder why more people aren’t using a red clover system,” Paul says. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agricom.

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Triumph swede succeeds Southland farmer Philip McCallum turned to Triumph swede for its high yield, palatability and excellent utilisation rates. On Rockley Farm, a 320ha block near Balfour in Southland, Philip McCallum finishes his own lambs, grazes store lambs and also runs 660 dairy cows for grazing (including 2 year olds). On top of this, Philip runs 150–180 yearlings, 1,100 M/A ewes (including two-tooths), 320 hoggets and 50 Angus Stud beef cows plus replacements. Philip was seeking a swede variety that was yellow-fleshed and a ‘good eater,’ along with ease of grazing for his yearling dairy calves. Looking to move away from the generally hardertype swedes, Philip worked with his Farmlands Technical Field Officer, Paula Taylor, to come up with the best solution. Agricom’s Triumph swede fitted well, being a high yielding yellow-fleshed swede with good leaf production. Philip direct drilled Gaucho treated Triumph swedes in early December and transitioned the yearlings onto the crop in mid May, with no issues around palatability. He was impressed with the high utilisation, noting that there were no bulbs left behind. Triumph is one of the highest yielding swedes to come through Agricom’s breeding programme, with outstanding results in Plant and Food trials in Gore, Chertsey and Methven from 2009–2012.

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| Farmlands Technical Field Officer Paula Taylor and Southland farmer Philip McCallum.

Philip had great results with his Triumph crop, which yielded 15.5T DM/ha, a yield that was considerably more than other swedes he had sown the same year. Based on yield and the performance of his yearling calves, Philip will be looking to use Triumph again next year. Like all swedes, Triumph requires good establishment management, climatic conditions and high phosphate levels to fully express its yield potential. Due to its leafy nature, Agricom does not recommend significant nitrogen use with Triumph, with 50–80 units of nitrogen at the start of crop establishment sufficient in most circumstances (depending on adequate soil available nitrogen). Where yield is the primary objective, Triumph swede is a great option, however some farmers struggle year on year with dry rot issues. Where dry rot tolerance is sought, Domain swedes are the best option. Trials by Plant and Food in Gore from 2009–2011 showed that Domain had one of the highest levels of tolerance against dry rot, compared to other commercially available swedes.

Being a traditional type swede, Domain does not produce as much leaf as other higher yielding varieties. It is an early maturing, yellow-fleshed swede with a slightly lower dry matter percentage than Triumph – making it highly palatable and an ideal swede for younger stock, as well as being completely suitable for all classes of stock. Domain and Triumph swedes are available to suit all farm types, providing high yielding, excellent palatability, good utilisation and dry rot tolerant options. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agricom.

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HORTICULTURE

Eradicate and prevent powdery mildew

Good practice: Protectorhml and HML32 are both contact fungicides, therefore

Powdery mildew has evolved to become the main disease that wine growers need to manage. It impacts yield, wine quality and is a precursor for other diseases such as botrytis and sour rots. Early eradication within a robust preventative programme is the key to effective control.

different rates of potassium bicarbonate

In 2014, Chris Henry of Henry

bicarbonate at 300g/100L and copper

sprayer calibration (audit) is

and a small amount of copper.

strongly recommended.

Plant and Food Research assessed the

Rates:

amount of powdery mildew reinfection

Protectorhml – 0.5 percent HML32

21 days after the one application

– 1.25L per 100L.

treatments and 14 days after the two

Sulphur – 4-5 kg/ha.

application treatments.

Copper – 45g metallic copper

A combination of HML32, potassium

Manufacturing Limited undertook a

(cuprous oxide) per 100L.

was found to be the most effective, as

powdery mildew eradication study in a

shown in Figure 1. Instead of total crop

Hawke’s Bay vineyard that had a severe

loss, the crop came through clean and

powdery mildew infection. When he first

did not split as predicted.

saw the block, his initial thoughts were

In 2014-15, this recipe was used

total crop loss.

successfully by a large number of

The treatments, sprayed once only or

growers with powdery mildew infection.

twice (7 days apart), involved HML32 with

Several growers who had significant powdery mildew

HML 32 Powdery Eradication Study January 2014 Reinfection at least 14 days after spraying.

infection in 2013-14 also used a combination of HML32, sulphur and copper to provide

100%

good canopy management and

eradication within their 83%

preventative programme with success.

80%

Chris’ key recommendation

60%

botrytis and others. It also provides an opportunity to introduce botrytis chemistry in between, if you think the variety requires it. It is for growers to determine how frequently to apply this treatment combination, to ensure eradication within the prevention programme as they would when considering spray intervals, sulphur rates and sprayer tuning. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Advisor or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by HML32.

is to bracket flowering with applications of HML32,

40%

sulphur and copper,

16%

20%

regardless of whether you

6% 0.1%

3% 0.1%

had significant powdery mildew infection in the previous season.

Untreated

By bracketing flowering

Two applications of HML 32 One application of HML 32 + Cu

Two applications of HML 32 + Cu

One application of HML 32 + Cu + KHCO3

Two applications of HML 32 + Cu + KHCO3

in this way, you will be eradicating spores of powdery mildew,

| Figure 1.

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HORTICULTURE

Prevent and protect Weather! It can be your best friend as well as your worst enemy. With this in mind, it’s important to consider what you can do to prevent damage to your crops, as well as the steps you can take to insure them should the unexpected happen. Taking this two pronged approach can provide peace of mind that you’ve given yourself the best chance of coming out on top should Mother Nature deliver her worst. The best way to protect your crop from the weather is to invest in measures that mitigate the potential for any damage or loss of production in the first place. Farmlands National Horticulture Manager, Luke Hansen, says the industry

covers your frost damaged fruit if your

don’t necessarily factor in the additional

is particularly good at implementing

permanently installed prevention gear

costs you need to meet to get back on

prevention measures for weather events

breaks down – because there’s nothing

your feet. Buying cover such as FMG’s

such as frost and encourages the use

worse than losing both your gear and

kiwifruit top-up cover for hail can help to

of frost alarms, frost control fans and

your crop!”

ensure you’re not shorthanded for the

overhead irrigation.

In addition to putting prevention

rest of the season and beyond.

“There’s plenty of good technology and

measures in place, you can also help

The right insurance option will depend

machinery out there to help us prevent

ensure your crops are adequately

on your individual circumstances.

damage to our crops. However, if these

protected by thoroughly reviewing your

Rural insurer FMG has specialist Rural

systems fail during a frost, the damage

insurance options at the beginning of the

Managers throughout the country who

can not only reduce the yields for this

season. With ever changing commodity

understand the horticulture and viticulture

season but also the next. Fortunately,

prices, it’s important to consider how

industry and can provide sound advice

FMG has introduced a new benefit that

much your fruit’s value has changed

about what options will work best for

and insure it for the right amount each

your needs.

season. This may involve topping up

For further information, contact

any industry insurance scheme you

your Farmlands Technical Advisor

belong to.

or the friendly team at your local

For example, as kiwifruit growers, the

Farmlands store.

industry’s hail insurance schemes from

Article supplied by FMG.

Zespri and pack-houses are generally only intended as a base cover. They

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HORTICULTURE

High quality adhesive and packaging solutions Henkel is a leader in packaging adhesives and is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest supplier of industrial adhesives. Henkel provides high quality, innovative brands and adhesive technologies to many industries including the packaged food and beverage sector.

melt adhesives should be used to achieve

The Henkel technical back up and service

a high standard of finished packaging.

allow machine set-ups to be optimised

Until recently, when Henkel introduced

through a combination of different nozzle

their range of metallocene based

sizes and pressure settings. One major

polyolefin hot melt adhesives,

beverage company that changed to the

horticultural packing rooms were

Henkel Supra 100 product achieved total

using EVA based hot melts. Erecting

savings of more than $250,000 in just 15

machines and application equipment

months. Many horticultural pack houses

Food contact legislation demands

were consequently required to assist

have made significant savings and

that food, including its packaging,

in overcoming the deficiencies of these

improved efficiencies from using Henkel

must be safe for human consumption.

cheaper hot melt adhesives.

Supra 100.

Through its in-house technical, analytical

The industry standard had, by default,

A further advantage of the Technomelt

been to use at least 20 thousandth-inch

Supra product is that it actually cleans

nozzles on the hot melt application

tanks and hoses. After an initial settling in

equipment. This allowed compensation

period when inline filters require regular

for charring, nozzle build-up and

checking, the hot melt unit then becomes

and product development infrastructure, Henkel provides an extensive portfolio of high performance adhesive solutions in conjunction with extensive food safety expertise.

minimised nozzle blockages and/

virtually maintenance free. Some blocked

For these reasons, Farmlands has

or poor adhesive delivery. Downtime

nozzles may be experienced initially,

partnered with Henkel to assist in

was therefore reduced by minimising

as the system drags through some of

providing shareholders with high

stoppages. Over time, the hot melt

the previous charring. However, this

quality, functional packaging for their

equipment deteriorated and required

can be minimised by checking the

horticultural products.

regular servicing and replacement of

inline filters regularly.

Henkel and the horticulture industry

parts. High repair and maintenance costs

Henkel representatives are available

Packaging materials used in the

were accepted practice with the use of

nationwide to audit and optimise

New Zealand horticulture industry are

these old technology adhesives.

adhesive applications and therefore

generally regarded as good quality.

However, it is now well proven that

guarantee the best value adhesive

It therefore follows that high quality hot

the Technomelt Supra range (a new

solutions. In addition, they can provide

technology hot melt) with its superior flow

actual New Zealand case histories and

characteristics offers substantial benefits

customer testimonials.

and savings to the industry. Supra 100

For further information, contact

dramatically reduces pack house odours

your Farmlands Technical Advisor

and allows smaller and more efficient

or the friendly team at your local

hot melt nozzle sizes to be used. sixteen

Farmlands store.

thousandth-inch nozzles running at

Article supplied by David Hill, Farmlands Horticulture.

lower pressures give immediate adhesive volume savings of at least 40 percent, with at least equal and often improved pack integrity.

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HORTICULTURE

Reducing the impact of wind damage Even moderate wind causes loss in productivity and quality through: 1. High evapotranspiration rates (plant stress). 2. Physical damage to plants. 3. Disruption of sprinkler distribution patterns. 4. Time and cost to replace damaged plants. 5. Reduced yield. The ideal windbreak should filter the wind, reducing the velocity in the protected area by pushing the bulk of fast moving air above that zone. In intensive horticulture situations, artificial windbreaks have distinct advantages over natural trees. The speed of the wind is reduced as it filters through a windbreak, giving

numerous beneficial effects. Although

The bottom line:

plant species react differently to wind

Windbreaks reduce wind speed and

protection because of their different

modify the microclimate of sheltered

forms, windbreaks generally give

areas. Overall, these changes improve

increased and earlier crop yields.

plant quality and growth.

Without a windbreak, leaf surface can be

Empak stock a comprehensive range of

damaged sufficiently to reduce yields.

knitted artificial shelter cloths in white,

Artificial windbreak/shelter cloth

black or green colours, from 0.91 metre

is instant:

widths right through to 5 metre, in three

• Windbreak shelter cloth

porosity (percent of wind block) options

can be designed to give

depending on load requirements.

predictable performance.

Typically white shelter cloth is the

• They don’t harbour pests and diseases. • Minimal maintenance with a minimum 10 year pro rata U.V. life. • Minimal shading of the productive area.

preferred option for use in kiwifruit blocks as the colour enhances light reflectivity reducing the effects of shading. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Advisor or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Empak Distribution.

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HORTICULTURE

New maize herbicide also controls cutworm Growing maize just got easier with the launch of Cutter – the new combination herbicide and insecticide from Orion AgriScience.

This is important because insecticide seed

By using the pre-emergence mixture of

treatments work predominantly through

3L/ha Cutter plus 3L/ha Atraflow it is

systemic activity where the insecticide is

now possible to control weeds and

taken up inside the maize seedling. This

proactively manage cutworm problems

Cutter is applied with atrazine as the

means the insect has to start feeding on

at the same time.

the maize plant to ingest the insecticide.

Furthermore you save time and money

Therefore in addition to its herbicide

because Cutter costs about the same as

properties, Cutter provides the first line

the leading acetochlor herbicide brands

of defence against cutworm. The seed

and it reduces the need for additional

treatment insecticide becomes the second

insecticide applications.

line of defence. So by applying Cutter and

For further information, contact

using insecticide treated seed, a double

your Farmlands Technical Advisor

defensive system is created that reduces

or the friendly team at your local

the chances of cutworm damage over the

Farmlands store.

critical crop emergence period.

Article supplied by Orion AgriScience.

normal pre-emergent herbicide mixture. Cutter controls weeds as well as providing the extra benefit of cutworm control over the critical period of crop emergence. The beauty of Cutter is that its contact insecticide action complements the insect control from insecticide treated seed. Because Cutter is sprayed over the soil surface, it knocks down the cutworm that are present just before the maize emerges.

CUTDOWN WEEDS CUTDOWN CUTWORM CUTDOWN TIME CUTDOWN COSTS Cutter™ controls weeds and cutworm in one hit. Apply Cutter with Atraflow™ (atrazine) as your normal pre-emergent herbicide mixture. Cutter will control weeds and protect your emerging crop against cutworm attack. It works perfectly in combination with insecticide seed treatments because it’s contact activity cuts down cutworm before crop damage occurs. Main advantages of using Cutter. • Controls cutworm across the entire field – even between the rows • Less cost compared to separate herbicide and insecticide applications • Perfect complement to insecticide seed treatment

For more information, visit your local Farmlands store.

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NUTRITION

The role of minerals in fertility Little things can make a big difference when it comes to reproductive performance. Major minerals and trace elements are not typically the first limiting factor affecting the fertility of cattle and sheep – but they are worth considering when other factors have been addressed and there is still a desire to improve fertility.

help to confirm the phosphorus status

oestrus – either irregular or suppressed.

of a herd. Phosphorus levels decline as

Iodine can become toxic to ruminants at

forages mature, so wholecrop and maize

intakes above 50mg/cow/day. High levels

silage are poorer sources of phosphorus

of iodine intake may create undesirable

investigating problems. It can, however,

than young clover pastures.

levels in milk, so supplementation

be difficult to interpret, because of the

Long term cobalt deficiency is associated

within the National Research Council

many interactions between minerals

with no oestrus and reduced conception

recommendations of 0.34–0.88mg/kg

and other components in feeds that

rates but low copper status is more

DM (about 17mg/day for cows eating

affect availability and utilisation. Routine

typically associated with delayed or

20kg DM) may be more appropriate

analysis of blood and liver samples are

depressed oestrus, abortion and poor

than the 50–60mg/cow/day

generally considered a more reliable

semen quality. Excess supplementation

recommended elsewhere.

indicator and should be considered

should be avoided because copper

Selenium deficiency can affect oestrus,

before the mating season commences.

toxicity can also impair reproduction.

ovulation, embryo fertilisation and

Whilst calcium is most commonly

Manganese has an effect on the

development, in addition to low sperm

functioning of the corpus luteum

motility. Zinc is a key component

and a deficiency can cause low

in testosterone and is essential for

matter intakes and can cause downer

fertility in adults.

the development and functioning of

cows when cows are milking well. In

Iodine is an essential component of

reproductive organs and male fertility.

practice these cases can be difficult to

thyroid hormones, which are involved

The available zinc pool is small and

prevent, as it is the relative fall in calcium

in the control of metabolic activity and

deficiency can appear quickly.

intake associated with decreased feed

reproduction. Iodine is very efficiently

Given the difficulty of identifying the

intake, rather than the actual level in the

absorbed but the production of thyroid

exact cause of sub-optimal fertility, a

diet. But prompt treatment can mitigate

hormones can be affected by the

balanced and conservative approach

the losses.

presence in the diet of goitrogens (e.g.

to trace mineral supplementation is

A deficiency of phosphorus can lead

in kale) or glucosides (e.g. in maize

recommended.

and white clover), so liver levels do not

Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist, Farmlands Nutrition.

Conserved forages and pasture sampling and analysis can be useful when

associated with health problems around calving, oestrus activity can suppress dry

to a failure to show oestrus and low conception rates. The analysis of bone samples from fallen or culled stock can

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correlate with dietary levels. A deficiency of iodine is associated with abnormal

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NUTRITION

Meeting the special needs of rabbits Rabbits can be delightful animals to keep as companions and breeding and showing rabbits is a hobby enjoyed by many. Rabbits do however, have some specific nutritional requirements that must be met in order to keep them as healthy as possible. The rabbit’s digestive tract is designed to digest a high fibre diet consisting mainly of grass. They are classified as hind-gut fermenters, which means that the majority of digestion takes place in their large intestine and cecum. Despite being high fibre digesters, rabbits have a rapid gut transit time – in simple terms, they get as much as they can out of consumed feed then excrete it. They do not hold onto large amounts of feed in their gut for extended periods of time, like ruminant species such as cows. This adaptation allows rabbits to maintain a relatively low body weight, which as small prey species, is necessary to survive in the wild. Rabbits that are not fed a high fibre diet are prone to a potentially fatal health problem called ‘gut stasis’. This is when their gut slows down completely to the point where they stop eating and defecating. Rabbits consume their own faeces – a phenomenon that is a little more complex than it may sound. The unique muscles of a rabbit’s cecum allows the intestinal tract to separate out fibrous material from more digestible material.

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The fibrous material is then passed as faeces, while the more nutritious material is encased in a mucous lining, which is later passed as faeces that are re-consumed by the rabbit. These faeces are often referred to as ‘night faeces’ and are high in minerals, vitamins and protein. Night faeces are softer and appear darker in colour than normal faeces. This ‘double digestion’ allows rabbits to extract the necessary nutrients from their feed, with no need for a weighty digestive system. Rabbits must always have constant access to either grass or hay in order to keep their teeth worn down. Rabbits with no access to hay or grass end up with teeth that overgrow, which can cause health issues such as mouth abscesses and incorrect jaw alignment. Rabbits that are kept in captivity often get less exercise than wild rabbits and

NRM Rabbit Pellets are the perfect

if their diet is not carefully regulated,

choice for your rabbits. A wide range of

they can become overweight.

B vitamins including niacin and choline

Overweight rabbits are unable to get

(which are essential for supporting

their mouth around to their posterior

energy metabolism and growth),

and are therefore unable to consume

along with a long list of other essential

their nutrient packed night faeces.

vitamins and minerals, will help to

The faecal matter can also stick to the

keep rabbits in optimum health. When

rabbit’s bottom and attract flies. It is

offered along with hay and grass, NRM

therefore important that rabbits are

Rabbit Pellets can improve fertility,

offered a well-balanced diet and are

maintain a healthy coat and support

not offered too many treat foods.

the long term health of your rabbits.

Formulated to be high in fibre

Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Technical Product Manager, Farmlands Nutrition.

and including one of the most comprehensive pre-mixes in our range,

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NUTRITION

Feeding management after a spell The onset of spring and warmer weather is often the time for horses to be brought back into work after a spell to enable them to be at optimum fitness for the upcoming performance season. Spelling a performance horse for a few weeks over winter is a great opportunity for both horse and rider to have a well-deserved break and brings with it multiple benefits to the horse’s physical and mental well-being. Time off contributes to the horse’s long term health and soundness as well as their work attitude and it is not unusual for horses to return to work with renewed enthusiasm for their job. At any stage of the horse’s fitness programme, it is important that nutrient requirements are met and feeding management is aligned with workload and altered accordingly. Various factors will determine the horse’s body condition on returning from a spell, including

pasture availability while turned out,

required. McMillan Protein Plus and

supplementary feeding and the horse’s

Sport Horse are both high quality,

individual metabolism. The lack of

textured feeds that are formulated with

work means that in many cases,

highly bioavailable organic minerals

horses will return from time off having

to meet all nutrient requirements for

maintained or gained body condition,

hard working horses. McMillan Rapid

however any holiday weight will often

Gain is also ideal for horses in higher

reduce with the commencement of

levels of work and contains enhanced

their fitness programme.

levels of fat and protein for horses that

The timing of beginning work

require a little extra nutrition.

combined with the spring flush of high

Adequate forage and the correct

sugar pasture can create a perfect

amount of a high quality, fortified

environment for exuberant behaviour

feed, combined with salt and a well

and some horses may require pasture

formulated electrolyte will provide

restriction and supplementary low

the performance horse with a

sugar forage to assist with behaviour

balanced diet and successfully meet

management. Lower energy feeds that

nutritional requirements. However,

supply adequate nutrition with less

additional supplementation may be

calories will also be required during

required to improve certain areas

this time. McMillan Cool Feed is a

such as joint health, coat and hoof

great choice for a formulated, higher

quality and muscle health through

fibre, lower starch feed that releases

antioxidant support. The Equin range

energy slower to avoid contributing to

of supplements is a high quality

any hyperactive behavior that can be

supplement range that complements

common during this time.

well balanced diets and aims to

Any excessive behaviour associated

improve various aspects of

with the beginning of work will often

equine health.

minimise as the horse becomes

The aim of any equine diet and fitness

settled into a routine and especially

programme should be to provide the

as the workload begins to increase.

correct levels of energy to achieve

While the increase in calories required

optimum body condition, meet all

as workload increases is often

nutrient requirements for the stage of

recognised, the need for increased

work and design the horse’s exercise

nutrients is often overlooked. Horses

programme to avoid injuries and

have increased requirements for

promote a long and successful

protein, trace minerals and vitamins

season ahead.

as workload steps up and for this reason, a change in feeds may be

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Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Farmlands Equine Nutrition Technical Advisor.

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NUTRITION

Commodity market update The global commodity market is in the doldrums, as the impact of financial slowdown in China flows through to key exporters around the globe.

As we head into our spring, the

Very hot conditions in the EU caused

northern hemisphere is on the tail

some crop stress in late June and

end of their grain harvest. Total global

on the eve of harvest, however the

grain production is better known at the

crop in general has weathered these

In recent years, Chinese demand has

completion of the harvests in Canada,

issues well. There is talk of strong El

the United States, United Kingdom,

Nino weather patterns developing,

Europe, Russia and the Black Sea. The

which could impact New Zealand’s

only significant harvests still to go are

grain harvest. It is looking too late to

Australia and South America.

significantly impact Australia’s wheat

Overall, this year, there have been no

and barley production.

major production issues anywhere in

With the lower dairy pay-out, palm

the world. Since the first 2015/16

kernel demand is the lowest it has

crop forecast was released by the

been in years. This is also impacting

USDA in May, they have increased

local grain prices as demand slows

their total global grain and oilseed

and stocks begin to build.

production forecast.

Article supplied by Glencore.

driven up commodity prices from crude oil to grains. The slowdown is having a direct impact for New Zealand’s key commodity exports. In the grain markets, adequate supply around the world is the theme for yet another year. It is estimated China will hold approximately 40 percent of the world’s total wheat supply and 45 percent of its corn supply at the end of 2015/16.

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

International year of soils The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has declared 2015 to be the International Year of Soils. New Zealand’s competitive advantage in the world agricultural produce market is very much centred on low cost pasture and crop production, the basis of which is fertile soil and adequate rainfall. Inputs that boost production, such as new grass cultivars, fertilisers, herbicides and irrigation all have their part to play – but soil structure and drainage needs to be managed to gain the maximum benefit from these inputs. Soil consists of minerals, organic matter and water and air in the spaces between the soil particles. The complex relationship between these elements

soil structure, all have adverse effects on crop growth. Pugging of waterlogged soils is one of the most insidious factors, being detrimental to immediate quality pasture availability as well as long term pasture growth, condition and composition. On farms where excess soil moisture is an issue, the benefits of a well designed and installed land drainage system are numerous and well researched. Production benefits accrue from elevated soil temperatures, longer growing season, improved soil structure through encouraging worm activity, unlocking of soil nutrients, developing root systems for growth and drought resistance and land drying uniformly for consistent germination and emergence.

determines the performance of the soil

Land value and productive area is

and its production capability. Too much

increased through stock rotation onto

water, too little air, high carbon dioxide

previously “no-go” winter paddocks,

levels, low oxygen and a breakdown of

opportunity to remove some open culverts and better access and operating conditions for farm machinery. Stock also benefit, with a decrease in health issues and improved conditions for lambing and calving. A decrease in soil compaction and surface run-off of nutrients into our natural waterways has an environmental benefit, as stewardship of the land for sustainable farming is front of everyone’s mind. These benefits can only be multiplied by more effective and faster land drainage.

aggregate backfill around the pipe, running mole-drains into the drainage laterals and the use of NexusTM, with its inherent smooth-bore flow performance advantage. Your land drainage contractor, with local knowledge of soil types and structures, is invaluable in offering advice on what best meets your needs. In summary, New Zealand farmers are soil farmers. Assess this most important farm asset and determine its needs. Address structure and drainage issues if required and then look to develop on this with other production inputs, which will inevitably benefit from previous investment in the land and become less reliant on supplements. As a one off capital cost, land drainage will continue to produce very good returns, with minimal long term maintenance costs. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Iplex.

Drainage design elements that achieve these results include increased pipe diameter or gradient, the use of granular

| THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Installing your water tank HELPFUL HINTS AND TIPS FROM PROMAX

Winter is over, things are starting to dry out and spring has sprung! Many of you will be looking to get new water tanks, to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for the summer ahead. Here’s some handy hints and tips to ensure the installation of your new water tank goes smoothly. Firstly – preparation is key:

• Ensure the tank site is flat and level, free from rocks or stones and any foreign matter that may damage the tank’s base. • Ensure the tank site is well

Planning how you will install and plumb

e.g. over tightening of fittings.

a drainlayer or plumber to ensure your

• Overflow must be piped clear of

plans will work!

base to avoid erosion.

To take advantage of the maximum catchment of water, it is ideal to place

into one tank. Please note the overflow capacity must match the downpipe

cover should be used to prevent sand from washing away after

the number of overflow pipes, their sizes and capacities. • Do not allow the tank site to deteriorate after installation due

capacity. For example, two 90mm inlet downpipes would require equal capacity

to any form of erosion or site

overflows. Also note that tank overflows

destruction caused by vermin

can go below the ground and come up

such as rabbits.

Important considerations when

• If a sand base is used, a retaining

sizes and capacities must equal

downpipes can be fed from both gutters

again, to meet stormwater run-off.

than the tank.

• The number of inlet pipes, their

tanks at the end of a building. This way,

prepare or level the site. least 300mm larger in diameter

be subjected to extra force,

recommend you run your project past

compacted if fill is used to • Ensure that the tank site is at

• The tank outlet must NOT

the tank is important – and we highly

plumbing the tank are:

• Ensure a flexible hose is installed after the gate or ball valve with a minimum 300mm length.

Avoid free hanging unsupported pipe work, it puts excessive strain on fittings and tank wall.

300mm Flexible Pipe Promax corrugated tanks can be buried

installation.

and fully back-filled up to 1 metre in the

Remember, a full tank will weigh up to

ground – and still retain their 20 year

30 tonnes – so it is important that the

warranty. Burying your Promax tank is

surface it sits on is stable and firm.

a great way to avoid height restriction issues – also a buried tank with shrubs

the tank once it has been delivered – if

planted around it is more attractive in

it’s windy or stormy your tank can easily be blown away if not secured down. Adding 200mm of water to the bottom of the tank is usually enough to weigh it down. An important part of the preparation is to think about the number and types of inlets, outlets and valves you require.

| THE FARMLANDER

100mm Sand or Equivalent

You may also need to ensure you secure

When pipe work is exposed or over a longer distance, insert a length of flexible pipe 300mm to absorb shocks and movements. Alternatively, lay pipe work into the ground just after the 300mm flexible pipe to avoid running over and damaging the fitting and/or tank.

your backyard! When you are planning to bury a Promax corrugated tank, you should prepare the base with 100mm minimum of compacted sand, just as you would if installing the tank above ground. Article supplied by Promax.