Plan 365 August 2014 by Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

AUGUST 2014

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

Cattle lice in New Zealand Background LICE NUMBERS

Lice in both beef and dairy cattle cause irritation, which leads to scratching and licking and can damage the skin of cattle, as well as cause annoyance. There is no New Zealand evidence that lice in cattle cause weight loss, however farmers have reported anecdotally that there are production losses in animals with lice. There are four species of lice that affect cattle in New Zealand - but only two main species that cause a problem:

0 SUMMER

The lice numbers are highest in the winter, when the climate suits the survival of lice and this also coincides with the cattle having a thick coat. Also, as winter is a time of feed restriction and close contact, this may facilitate spread.

2. Linognathus vituli: a sucking lice, which sucks blood. They are generally found on younger stock. All these lice are “host specific” and stay on cattle and cannot live on sheep.

BLAZE

BLAZE contains 15g/L of deltamethrin, the most recent and effective of Synthetic Pyrethroids (SPs). It acts as a repellent and also prevents flies from landing and feeding. BLAZE causes rapid paralysis and death of both lice and flies, mainly due to them coming into contact with the active chemical but also through ingestion of it.

Life cycle This approximately 5 week (34-36 days) cycle has three stages – egg, nymph and adult. Females live approximately 30 days and lay one egg a day on average, which hatch 8-10 days later. This produces the first stage nymph - the nymph will moult three times as it grows into an adult. The whole process must occur on the animal. Lice do not jump or survive on fences or yards for more than a few days, hence it requires close contact for transfer to occur.

Adult louse

3rd stage nymph

22-28 days

WINTER

SPRING

AUTUMN

Figure 3: Apply BLAZE® down midline, from poll to tail.

BLAZE has nil milk and nil bobby calf withholding periods, meaning dairy cows can be treated for lice anytime. The meat withholding period is 28 days - this means it can be used at any time during the year. Article supplied by COOPERS, a division of MSD Animal Health. Registered trademark. COOPERS NZ/BLZ/0514/0001 ®

Treatment with BLAZE prevents scratching and reduces irritation, improves coat appearance and stops damage caused by rubbing. Using BLAZE provides peace of mind and avoids unnecessary production and profit losses.

8-10 days

Applied down the midline of cattle, from poll to tail (see figure 3), BLAZE controls lice by moving through the natural oils on the skin surface to cover the entire body. It is not absorbed into the blood stream, therefore has no effect on internal parasites.

1st stage nymph

2nd stage nymph

Figure 1: Cattle louse life cycle – approximately 5 weeks in total.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

SUMMER

Lice numbers

1. Bovicola bovis: a biting lice, which feeds on skin debris, skin secretions and bacteria – they don’t suck blood. They are found on cattle of all ages.

Egg

AUTUMN

Figure 2: Lice numbers are highest in winter

BLAZE POUR-ON 2.5L

Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. A8214.

THE FARMLANDER |

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Key points on tick control T. orientalis is now widespread over

• Bayticol Pour-on as an effective

cycle, killing on contact. It provides

the northern half of the North Island,

treatment and control

persistent activity for 3-6 weeks

with cases diagnosed as far south as

• Other management practices for

with total body coverage. Bayticol

Taranaki, the King Country, Wanganui

controlling ticks

Pour-on is rainfast, with nil meat and

and Hawke’s Bay. Animals under stress are most at risk from infection, in particular cows at calving and young calves. Given the importance of ticks as a vector for this disease, spring is therefore a critical time of year to consider best practice for managing ticks on your property. You can’t eliminate ticks completely but the aim is to control them, to reduce the risk of T. orientalis transmission and clinical theileriosis. The article below outlines some key topics to consider for effective control of ticks, such as: • The right timing for tick control, based on the tick life cycle

The right timing for tick control, based on the tick life cycle Optimal timing of tickicide treatments

milk withholding periods and is safe to use on cattle and deer. Other management practices for

can reduce the potential numbers, in

controlling ticks

the environment and the severity of the

Pasture control is vital to make the

challenge. Key treatment times focus

environment less ‘tick friendly’, with

on the reduction in tick numbers, based

strategic topping and grazing with other

on the life cycle of the tick: application

species not susceptible to Theileria

in autumn (Jan-April) to kill the larvae

spp., e.g. Seraphos treated sheep.

on the animals to reduce the numbers

When looking at strategic treatment

over winter, with further applications

on your property, it’s best to speak

in spring (Aug-Oct) to kill nymphs on

with your animal health professional,

animals to reduce adult numbers.

as each treatment regime is different

Bayticol Pour-on as an effective

for each farm and needs to be

treatment and control

managed accordingly.

Bayticol Pour-on tickicide treats and

Using a tickicide is just part of

controls all three stages of the tick life

successful vector management – awareness, observation and understanding of the tick life cycle

BAYTICOL POUR-ON 5L

is just as important. Knowing what

• Targets every stage of the tick life cycle. • Prolonged residual action. • Total body coverage. • Dramatic visible results. • Nil meat and milk withholding periods.

for better management decisions, to

is happening on your farm will make decrease tick populations and lessen the risk of T. orientalis infection. Don’t wait until ticks are visible on stock. Target the opportune times in the life cycle, when impact would be greatest. For more details contact your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Bayer Animal Health.

Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No.A5335.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

The smart guide to treating scouring calves Whatever the reason, a scouring calf is at risk of massive loss of: • Body fluids • Electrolytes (body salts) • Energy All of these are vital for survival and losses can severely hinder your valuable replacements from reaching their growth potential. When it comes to managing scours, every day is valuable. A calf scouring for even a single day loses significant volumes of fluids and body weight. In the clinical situation, a 40kg calf might potentially lose a couple of litres of fluids during one day of scouring – this equates to 2kg of body weight lost in one day! As the scour continues, the weight and fluid loss can quickly become critical. A severely dehydrated calf would need to

drink at least 8-10 litres a day to account for the fluid lost in the scour. In reality, this is unlikely to happen without therapeutic intervention, as these dehydrated calves become weak and are simply unable to get enough fluid to replace the lost reserves. Administering fluids that contain electrolytes (such as Dexolyte or ElectroLife) allow better utilisation of the fluids taken in and also contain vital energy and vitamin A components, to assist weak and energy deprived calves, to get back on track quicker. The sooner a calf can get back onto milk, the sooner it will be able to balance its own fluids, electrolytes and energy levels. For this reason it is recommended that milk feeds continue, even in actively scouring calves, with electrolyte replacements being

DEXOLYTE 1KG • Electrolyte replacer with added energy. • Assists in the treatment of dehydration resulting from enteritis and diarrhoea. • Provides an immediately available source of energy. • Non antibiotic, safe for bobby calves. • Nil milk and meat withholding period.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

administered between feeds (see feeding recommendations below).

Figure 1 After a moderate scour, calves on this regime can be expected to recover and make a return to routine milk feeding fairly quickly without further problems.

For more details contact your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Bayer Animal Health.

ELECTROLIFE 12 X 82G SACHET • Oral electrolyte for hydration and energy in calves. • Packed in single-dose sachets for easy and accurate dosing. • Readily accepted by calves. • Nil milk and meat WHP.

THE FARMLANDER |

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Residue limits make good teat spray practice critical All Fonterra suppliers will be aware of the increased focus being placed upon milk residues and the need to eliminate some key ones from the raw milk source.

Dilution rate – In the past a dilution rate

the immediate teat area, minimising the risk

of 1:4 product to water has been the norm

of additional spray being directed into milk

at high risk periods. This is required to

contact points such as cups.

now be 1:9, or 10 percent product to 90

Automated systems will need to have a

percent water.

The focus is on reducing or removing

sensor fitted to ensure cows with cups still

The 1:4 dilution rate has always been

on aren’t sprayed.

recommended to ensure higher levels

For manual systems, staff should be taken

of emolliency in early lactation. At a 1:9

through correct teat spraying practice,

dilution rate, it will be necessary to add

ensuring all four teat barrels are covered.

an increased proportion of emollient teat

Eliminating the risk of teat spray residue

conditioner to the mix, particularly at higher

affecting milk quality cannot be guaranteed

risk periods i.e. spring time.

entirely but following these simple steps

Measurement accuracy – “Near enough

from mixing to application will have a

certain surfactants from the build of both dairy hygiene and teat care formulations. These include Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QAC), Nonylphenol Ethoxylate (NPE) and Alcohol Ethoxylate (AE). Research to date has shown that these compounds, (used in the build of teat sprays) are largely responsible and combined with incorrect mixing rates and application methods, can contribute to an increased residue risk. Most companies supplying these products are reformulating their products, or recommending significant changes to the mixing ratios, to ensure the compound residues in products are well within the perimeter of the testing threshold. As an industry leader in innovation and compliance, FIL has also gone to significant efforts to comply with the new standards. FIL dairy hygiene and teat care products do not contain QAC or NPE. Farmers can use FIL products with

is good enough” is not good enough

significant effect.

anymore. The risk of residue detection

FIL has a field force of trained, highly

means measurement needs to be accurate

experienced area managers who can offer

and consistent. To help with that FIL is

advice on every step, including taking staff

offering a free 5 litre measuring jug with

through the entire process with quality,

every container of Teat Conditioner sold

compliant products alongside them.

through Farmlands during August – a

Article supplied by FIL.

simple “recipe” sheet should also be shown to all staff members involved in mixing and each member of staff should be observed mixing, to ensure they know it. Mixing order following sequence: 1. Add desired quantity of potable water

to the mixing vessel

confidence, as all their teat sprays have approval at a 1:9 dilution rate ensuring

3. Add FIL Teat Conditioner

excellent bacteria control whilst at the

4. Ensure good mixing

detection. Once a low risk product has been chosen, there are some simple but critical steps that need to become part of the daily routine in the dairy, to keep that residue risk at bay.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

• Additive to teat sprays where extra emolliency and skin conditioning is required. • For use in cold, wet and windyconditions to increase teat protection.

Teat spray should always be mixed in the

2. Add FIL Teat Spray

same time reducing risk of residue

FIL TEAT CONDITIONER 20L

Application Because the blend is now more dilute, exact application becomes even more critical. All auto teat sprayers should be checked and calibrated to ensure correct application doses are being administered. Check that nozzles are directed only upon

THE FARMLANDER |

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Early-intervention hoof care saves time and money New Zealand’s leading veterinarians and hoof care experts are in agreement over the immediate benefits available through blocking hooves. As cattle lameness and attention to hoof care becomes more of an issue through wet months, farmers throughout the country are investing significant amounts of time and money into this ongoing issue. "Blocking feet is a key to reducing pain and quickly getting lame cows back in the milking herd,” advises Neil Chesterton, veterinarian and lameness consultant. “Over a season, I block approximately 60 percent of hoof injuries I treat. Serious cases need a block that lasts for a minimum 3 weeks. However, less severe cases do benefit from blocking for 10 days to 2 weeks.”

“I find Walkease blocks a cost effective solution for these milder cases of lameness. The low cost, ease and speed of application makes them a good choice,” explains Neil. “Fitting a

WALKEASE

While Neil strongly recommends the

Walkease block takes me about 3 and

use of blocking for all hoof injuries,

a half minutes in total, after treating the

• 10 block packs available in small, medium or large. Includes 10 pairs of gloves, 1 x glue, 1 x rasp, 1 x instruction DVD and 1 x instruction book all packed in a resealable plastic container.

the perceived short-term cost is the

injured claw.”

Procedure for use is:

main limitation for most farmers.

Prevention and early-intervention of

Ideally, Neil would like to see farmers use a block for even mild injuries, to get the animal immediately back into the herd.

cattle lameness is of vital importance for farmers and their animals globally. Having a low cost, easy-to-use hoof care product, which can be used at the

The introduction of an early-intervention

first sign of a sore hoof (pre-lameness),

treatment system, which can be used

is certainly good news for farmers and

quickly and easily by the farmer,

good news for their cows.

is already receiving great interest

The New Zealand hoof care expert agrees. “A feature of the Walkease block is that it wears evenly and thus does not need removal, as wood blocks can do. Even for the heavier cows, I am surprised how effective the Walkease block can be.”

around the world. Walkease blocks can be left on the hoof indefinitely, as they will naturally wear down and wear off while the cow walks comfortably on a rubber jandal.

1. Treat the damaged claw as required. 2. Use the surform rasp to clean and level the healthy claw. 3. Apply glue sparingly to the Walkease block (maximum 2ml). 4. Press the block onto the hoof for about 10 seconds. 5. Immediately release the leg for the cow to put weight on the Walkease (this part is most important).

Article supplied by Shoof International.

| THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Tailored dairy farm fertiliser programmes Spring is when most dairy farmers apply the majority of their fertiliser. Getting it right is key to farm performance, so before you make any decisions about what to apply, make sure you get some good advice, so you end up with a fertiliser programme that will give you the best return for your investment. “Most dairy farmers apply approximately two thirds of their maintenance fertiliser in the spring (post calving) and one third in the autumn. Ideally, fertiliser needs should be determined by a nutrient budget, one component of which is a soil test,” Ballance Merchant Relationship Representative, Grant Gillard says. Soil testing should be carried out regularly, at the same time of the year, so that you can gauge the trends in nutrient levels over time. Once you have entered the results in a nutrient budget, you will be able to tailor your programme to fit the different blocks on your farm, for example effluent, established or new pasture blocks.

aim for 30-40 for ash and sedimentary soils, or 45-55 for pumice and peat, as long as you are sure you can use the extra feed effectively. Sulphate-S levels should be in the 10-12 range, Quick Test K levels need to be 7-10 in ash and pumice soils, 5-8 in sedimentary soils and 5-7 in peat and Quick Test Mg levels should be 8-10.

effluent is being used on-farm,” Grant says. “Effluent is an excellent source of nutrients, containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulphur and trace elements. However, putting additional nutrients onto the same area could increase the risk of nutrient run-off or leaching and animal health problems.

Grant points out that maintenance fertiliser rates can be calculated from nutrient losses, which are largely determined by milk solids production per hectare. It is probably easiest to do the calculations in collaboration with your local Farmlands or Ballance representative. However, he says some typical dairy maintenance product options and rates for spring are Superten (350-450kg/ha), Superten 10K (375-475kg/ha), Pasturezeal G2 10K (375-500kg/ha) or Pasturezeal G2 Impact (275-375kg/ha).

“Fertiliser inputs will also be affected by other farm management decisions, such as how much feed is imported onto the farm, whether stock are wintered off or on-farm and how long the milking season is. Whichever programme is followed, farmers should monitor their soil fertility levels and make adjustments to their fertiliser plan accordingly.”

“When making fertiliser decisions, it is important to consider if and where

For more advice on your spring fertiliser requirements, talk to your local Farmlands representative. Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

The key nutrients to analyse are phosphorus, sulphur, potassium and magnesium. Nitrogen can be applied strategically to boost pasture growth to meet any feed pinches. Phosphorus levels, as measured by Olsen P, should be maintained in the range of 20-30 for ash and sedimentary soils, or 35-45 for pumice and peat soils. If your milk solids production is more than 1,000kg MS/ha, you can

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Unique new ryegrass put to the test in Central Otago Maximising pasture persistence and production in Central Otago is often easier said than done with perennial ryegrass. But a new cultivar purpose bred for sheep and beef could be just the advance one farming partnership is looking for. With 1,720ha under sheep and dairy support at Moa Flat, near Ettrick, brothers Aaron and Glenn Watson need plenty of high quality grass that can survive their altitude, light free draining soils, frequent summer droughts and cold winters. They’re keen to try new things to improve pasture performance, so when their Farmlands TFO Andrew Brown told them last spring he was looking for a trial site for a unique new ryegrass, they promptly made a 7ha paddock available. Eight months down the track, Rohan SPR (short for spreading perennial

ryegrass) has got off to a good start, with impressive growth and palatability. It’s been grazed every 14 days since finishing lambs were weaned onto it mid January and DM yields are up to double those of the existing 5 year old ryegrass pasture next door, according to pasture measurements being taken by Agriseeds agronomist Janet Montgomery. Glenn and Aaron say they’ve been careful to look after Rohan SPR in this first year. “We’ve never nailed it to the gunnels – we’d leave the lambs on it until they got down to a cover of about 500mm then take them off.” If Rohan SPR continues to impress, it could be the ryegrass species they’re looking for to bridge the gap with their specialist dryland species. “Traditionally this has been rye and clover country. But with the more challenging seasons we’ve been

having, ordinary ryegrass is just not lasting. Dry matter drops by at least half after a hard year and then we’ve got grass grub and porina to deal with as well. “We’ve moved to lucerne and fescue in some paddocks but we still need ryegrass on our colder country, where rainfall is a bit more reliable – that’s why we’re trying Rohan. It’s early days yet, as it was only sown in October but we’re impressed. Stock like it too.” The brothers aim to increase DM production and renew their pastures more frequently, to keep the farm producing well. This year 5,300 Romney ewes went to the ram and surplus lambs will be finished for slaughter, between early December and late March. The farm also carries 800-1,200 flock replacements, winters 2,100 dairy cows and runs 300 dairy heifers from May to May. In addition, Glenn and Aaron run 120 breeding bulls a year. All pastures are sown post crop, using a roller drill. Rohan SPR is a new ryegrass from Agriseeds, bred specifically to provide persistent, resilient, easy care pasture for extensive farm systems. It has unusually fine leaves, very high tiller density and a unique ability to spread across the ground after it is established. To find out how Rohan SPR can improve your farm productivity, talk to Farmlands today. Article supplied by Agriseeds.

| Aaron and Glenn Watson, Moa Flat.

| THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Pasture persistence against grass grub and porina now a reality If there was any doubts as to the effectiveness of Cropmark’s new endophyte “GrubOUT® U2” in protecting pasture against grass grub and porina attack then those doubts should be dispelled by a pasture trial at Mandeville, near Gore. The pasture trial, which was sown 4 years ago to evaluate the persistence of different grass endophytes, has this year sustained heavy infestations of grass grub and porina. There are now very noticeable differences in the persistence of the different grasses and endophytes being tested. Most grasses in the trial have been devastated by the grass grub and porina. But not the grass containing the GrubOUT® U2. It appears to be unaffected by the very heavy infestations of grass grub and porina. Property owners Rhys and Michelle Houghton have been most impressed with the persistence of the GrubOUT® U2 endophyte. Their 62 hectare property has serious ongoing problems with grass grub and porina and lack of persistence of pastures is a serious issue to them. Because of the damage to the rest of the paddock, Rhys is faced with having to renovate the paddock this spring. “Grass Grub in particular is a serious problem for us. The superior persistence of the GrubOUT® U2 strips is very noticeable. If the rest of the paddock was like the GrubOUT® U2 strips, I wouldn’t need to plough it up,” Rhys says.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

The GrubOUT® U2 endophyte is available in Cropmark’s Barrier Combo™ pasture mix - a ready-to-sow permanent pasture mix containing grasses and clovers. Until the launch of GrubOUT® U2 endophyte last year in the Barrier Combo pasture mix, no endophyte was able to provide grasses with any protection against grass grub. That is because commercially available endophytes did not protect the root zone of host grasses. That all changed with the commercialisation of GrubOUT® U2. Developed by Cropmark Seeds, the GrubOUT® U2 endophyte protects the whole of the grass plant. The endophyte, a microscopic fungus that lives within the plant, produces a unique set of alkaloids called lolines, which act as feeding deterrents to insect pests – they don’t like eating plants containing lolines and tend to leave them alone. A big consequence of this is that persistence of host pastures is significantly improved – something that was very evident to the Farmlands Southland Technical Field Officers when they visited the trial recently.

endophyte, which does not cause grass staggers or heat stress. It is safe for sheep, cattle and deer. The Barrier Combo™ pasture mix is also extremely palatable and is preferentially grazed by livestock. Livestock trials have shown higher voluntary intake of Barrier Combo™, relative to other grass/ endophyte options available, as well as high livestock performance. For information on Barrier Combo™ with the GrubOUT® U2 endophyte, or to order seed, talk to your local Farmlands Technical Field Officer, or enquire at your nearest Farmlands store. Article supplied by Cropmark.

It is not just grass grub and porina that are affected by the GrubOUT® U2. Other insects including black beetle (adults and larvae), field crickets and Argentine stem weevil are also affected. But it is not just superior persistence against insects that GrubOUT® U2 and the Barrier Combo™ pasture mix offers. GrubOUT® U2 is an animal safe

THE FARMLANDER |

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Fodder beet: it’s time for planning Farmlands Opunake client Chris Putt, from Manaia, South Taranaki, has had excellent results for the past 3 years from growing a range of Agricom fodder beet. Chris has used both Rivage and Splendide and has achieved outstanding yields. This is due to his location, the preparation of his paddocks and ensuring corners are not cut with his inputs and timings.

1. Good soil preparation

Chris’ coastal Taranaki climate allows him to sow relatively early and utilise while the leaf content is still high. The paddocks he chooses have previously been focused with stock effluent, building up the soil potassium and nutrients.

2. Precision sowing

In his first years of using this crop, he relied highly on the advice of his reps and would recommend new growers to do this. Chris emphasises that for him, preparation is the key and shortcuts cannot be taken if wanting to achieve high yields. He continues to follow the prescribed practice of a double spray out and also applies insecticide at sowing. Chris does not believe this crop is overly labour intensive - and no more difficult than growing maize. The steps just need to be followed and weed control early on is key to ensuring yield is not compromised.

• pH - Ideally 6 – 6.5. Lime early to allow for pH change to occur • Nutrients – Requires potassium, sodium and to a lesser extent phosphate and nitrogen. Apply most at pre-sowing, with side dressings before bulb development • Seed bed - firm, fine and moist seed bed to allow good seed-soil contact

• Precision drill - Even coulter height to ensure uniform germination, to increase success and ease of weed control • Seed quality - modern true monogerm seed, maximise uniformity and reliability 3. Weed and insect control • Fallow to allow stale seed bed – allow moisture retention and double spray programme for germinating weeds • Pre-emergence spray • 1st post emergence spray approximately 7-10 days after germination • 2nd post spray - approximately 10-14 days post the 1st spray

The flagship cultivars Rivage and Splendide are both high dry matter percentage bulb crops. These provide uniform bulbs and fit as both in paddock grazing, or have the added flexibility of being suitable as a lifting crop. Monro has a lower bulb dry matter percentage but can produce large bulbs that on average are 60 percent out of the ground, making them easily accessible to grazing animals and suitable for young stock. Pre-planning and initial close monitoring of this crop is essential. Speak to your local Farmlands Technical Field Officer to discuss the options of using fodder beet on your farm.

• 3rd spray – spray if required

Chris uses his fodder beet for his autumn calving herd to utilise through to mating and sees the value in this high energy feed early in lactation.

• During establishment, monitor for signs of grass grub, cutworm, springtails and nysius to control before irreversible damage that will affect crop yield

These three vital steps can help in reaching the full potential of fodder beet, along with having strong links to advice and monitoring from your local Technical Field Officers.

Agricom has three established, high quality true mono-germ fodder beet varieties on the market, which fit a range of systems and uses.

| THE FARMLANDER

| Agricom’s three fodder beet varieties (left to right) Splendide, Rivage and Monro.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

Colour-It reflective cloth increases fruit colour and value Extensive studies have measured a number of benefits when using Colour-It as a reflective cloth preharvest ground cover. In independently conducted, replicated trials on a number of apple varieties in New Zealand, Colour-It:

An improved fastening system has been developed to speed up installation, shifting and removal and to be secure when the wind blows. 2014 Trials Replicated orchard trials to measure apple fruit colouration and maturity responses to reflective cloth were carried out in

• Significantly increased the

commercial Hawke’s Bay orchards during

percentage fruit colour coverage • Did not affect fruit internal maturity characteristics. This means that Colour-It reflective cloth: • Increases marketable yield, by increasing the proportion of the crop meeting packhouse colour specifications • Increases the proportion of the crop achieving higher fruit colour grades, which means higher fruit value and higher packouts

the 2014 season.

| Colour-It cloth in standard Fuji.

Colour-It reflective cloth was compared

• Reduces the harvest interval, so

with an untreated control for varying

that more fruit is harvested early in

intervals. Fruit colouration measured at the

the harvest interval and with better

start of harvest was significantly increased

storage ability

in all varieties. The proportion of the

• Improves overall quality, because

crop below 40 percent colouration was

more fruit is picked in better

significantly reduced and the proportion

condition

above 70 percent was significantly

Colour-It reflective cloth is made from durable fabric. During manufacture, it is impregnated with an ultra violet light protectant to increase its longevity.

increased by the cloth treatments. This response is illustrated using the variety Fuji as an example (Figure 1). Fruit internal quality was unaffected by the reflective cloth treatment. Note that

Figure 1: Distribution of fruit blush coverage at start of harvest in standard Fuji 35%

start of harvest was not measured. Factors affecting response

30%

A number of factors influence the

25% Frequency

additional colour development after the

response to Colour-It reflective cloth.

20%

Variety : Each variety responds differently.

15%

Control Control

10%

Colour-it Colour-It

Duration: Optimal benefit for fruit colour development usually takes 2-3 weeks for most blocks and varieties. If duration is too short, response may be

disappointing. On the other hand, little extra benefit may be gained from long Blush coverage category (%)

| THE FARMLANDER

duration and gains from shifting to other blocks could be missed.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

Sunshine: There is a marked seasonal

in smaller, dwarf trees while larger canopies

decline in sunshine duration and energy

intercept more light and reduce what is

over the course of the apple harvest. This

available to be reflected back. Typically,

means that later season varieties require

larger trees require more time to get a

more time to receive equivalent sunshine

similar response to smaller trees.

energy than early ones. Cloudy weather

The team at Colour-It are committed

also affects response.

to ongoing product development and

Tree size: More light is reflected by the cloth

knowledge improvement so growers can gain

more from using Colour-It reflective cloth. Article supplied by Proline Products NZ Ltd. Test results supplied by Fruition.

Treatment details and responses from the 2014 trial work were: Change in % of crop in the following colour bands with Colour-It

Variety

Treatment Duration

Control

Cloth

Colour Increase

All standard clones

Number of days cloth was under trees before assessment and start of harvest

Treatment means

Average difference in apple % colour coverage assessed before harvest

Less than 40%

70% or more

Royal Gala

48%

57%

+9%

-10%

+18%

Jazz

35%

56%

+21%

-33%

+30%

Fuji

39%

50%

+10%

-19%

+16%

Pink Lady

39%

44%

+5%

-9%

+8%

CUT OFF DATE FOR MADE TO ORDER

VINE NETTING

15 TH

SEPTEMB

2014

MADE TO ORDER OVER ROW NETS AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING OPTIONS: • DIAMOND OR HEXAGONAL HOLE SHAPE • 30GSM OR 39GSM • WHITE OR BLACK

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FARMLANDS REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |

HORTICULTURE

ThermoMax - frost protection Plant warming tests

throughout the country. In addition

Frost. If ever a word was guaranteed to

to being relatively inexpensive when

cause anxiety and stress to commercial

compared with other anti-frost measures,

orchardists and home gardeners, that

ThermoMax also provides secondary

word is frost. The level of danger posed

benefits such as more compact flowering

to orchardists from frost is best illustrated

and a shortened growing season, due to

by the lengths and costs growers go

the better spring start crops achieve.

to attempting to neutralise or lessen its

ThermoMax has been used for frost

effects. From hiring helicopters through

protection by growers of grapes, apples,

to giant fans and irrigation systems,

stonefruit, persimmons, passionfruit,

there is an array of anti-frost measures

avocados, tamarillos, citrus and kiwifruit.

available. Most are expensive and the

In fact, the product is suitable for all

quality of their benefits varies.

fruits and plants that protection from

The photos attached to this report

frost is required, except for leafy green

were taken in May 2005, in an avocado

vegetables, because with the increased

orchard in the Bay of Plenty. These

temperature, the vegetables can go

avocado plants were virtually side-by-

to seed quicker than unprotected

side and are part of an approximately

vegetables would be expected to.

200 tree orchard. Similar results were

For more information please talk

obtained throughout the orchard in

to the friendly team at your local

comparisons between ThermoMax

Farmlands store today.

protected avocado trees and the

Article supplied by Bd Max.

| Sprayed.

| Unsprayed.

unprotected. Recorded temperatures dropped as low as -3Â°C. The graph to the right shows the internal temperature of different trees,

Inside temperatures of avocados

both sprayed and unsprayed. These 20

temperatures were taken 14th July,

published in the next issue. From modest beginnings, ThermoMax use has grown very rapidly, to the point where it is now being used in a large number of orchards and gardens

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Degree

ThermoMax lasts. Results will be

15.5

18.6

18.6 16.5

15.5

18.2

18 16.5

18.4 16.5

18.3 15.5

15.7

with ThermoMax. The temperatures month to establish the length of time

18.5

15.5

approximately one week after spraying will be monitored weekly for the next

18.8

10 5 0

Leaf

Stem

Old Trees

Leaf

Stem

Old Trees Sprayed

Leaf

Stem

Old Trees

Leaf

Stem

Old Trees

Unsprayed

THE FARMLANDER |

HORTICULTURE

Chemical weed control in sweetcorn There are limited registered herbicides available for controlling weeds in sweetcorn. In general, chemical companies will develop a product for maize and then complete the registration work for sweetcorn if they perceive the market is big enough. One of the challenges with registering a product for sweetcorn is that not all cultivars respond the same to a particular product. Some varieties would show tolerance to a herbicide, yet others not. Therefore, a range of cultivars is experimented on during the registration process. Not surprisingly, there are numerous herbicides registered for maize but only a few for sweetcorn.

registered for sweetcorn and have been

sweetcorn varieties, harvest dates

proven as safe for the crop across a

may limit the choice of post-emerge

multitude of cultivars. When considering

herbicides that have longer withholding

chemical options, also be mindful of

periods. Choice of registered post-

potential following crops and the impact

emergence herbicides for sweetcorn

of soil chemical residues. Depending on

(e.g. Emblem) has been limited.

the subsequent crop, the grower may

The recent registration of two new

choose to use a product such as

herbicides for use in sweetcorn crops

Frontier-P instead.

provides additional options. Experience

For various reasons, pre-emergence

with these products suggests either one,

herbicide weed control can be

or both, will become the standard in any

disappointing. This can be due to either

herbicide programme for sweetcorn.

too little or too much rainfall affecting

Sharpen can be used pre-emerge in

the performance of the herbicide. Other

sweetcorn and can be tank mixed with

factors such as soil organic matter

acetochlor to provide enhanced weed

content and temperature may also

control, thereby reducing the possibility

impact herbicide performance. Growers

of needing a post-emergence spray.

A typical herbicide programme for

should always plant expecting that a

However, should a post-emergence

sweetcorn could include acetochlor

post-emerge herbicide may be required.

option be required, Arietta gives

(Roustabout/Sylon), mixed with atrazine

Post-emerge chemical choice will be

exceptional control of both grass and

(Gesaprim), applied as a pre-emergence

determined by what grass and broadleaf

broadleaf weeds.

herbicide - but this may not be suitable

weeds are present, as well as the growth

Weed control unfortunately may not

for all soil types, or the target weed

stage of the weeds and what level of

be as simple as outlined here, as each

species. Both of these chemicals are

control is desired. For short maturity

region tends to have different weed species and environments. Some regions are beginning to see a degree of resistance to particular chemicals and how different weeds respond to the different herbicides. The Farmlands Horticulture team is available to help you with further information on product choice, timing and appropriate use to achieve optimum results. Article supplied by Brett Turner. Farmlands Horticulture Technical Advisor, Waikato.

| THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

Minimising the effects of PSA-V, from bud break to flowering Spring is a high risk season for PSA-V. Cold, wet and windy conditions all favour PSA-V, right when there are a lot of wounds on the vine. The good news is that spring is also the perfect time for growers to reduce inoculum loading with the correct timing of sprays.

wounded by rubbing, breakages and

when applications were made from the

shredding caused by wind – and in

4th or 5th true leaf at 25-50ml per 100L.

some cases hail. Shoots can also

As vines approach flowering, an

be exposed to prolonged periods

application of Actigard should be

of rain, which is known to spread

considered to start vines eliciting.

bacteria. Growers now have a range

Flowers themselves can act as an

of chemicals to apply. They vary from

open wound, with PSA-V congregating

coppers to elicitors (such as Actigard

around the pollen grains and tubes. Be

Bud break

and Ambitious) and bactericides

aware, however, that if vines are under

Bud break is a high risk period because

(i.e. streptomycin).

significant stress, there can be negative

of the amount of exposed wounds.

Timing of when products are applied

impacts on the orchard, with vines

Growers will be tying down 25 to 50

should be based around current

potentially stalling.

buds per m². This equates to 250,000 to

weather and forecast weather.

Managing PSA-V is a skill the Farmlands

500,000 wounds per hectare as the bud

www.metvuw.com and

Horticulture team is well versed in. If

scales open. Copper is the preferred

www.metservice.co.nz are

you are unsure what you are applying

product at this time, with growers

invaluable tools. The KVH website

is correct, feel free to contact your

needing to apply it regularly as weather

has a weather driven PSA-V risk model,

local Farmlands Horticulture Technical

events dictate. Observations last

which provides inoculum forecasts.

Advisor for assistance.

Extension growth up to flowering

Article supplied by Dwayne Farrington. Technical Advisor, Bay of Plenty.

season were that orchards where an application of copper was made during male green tip experienced little or no spotting on the female canopies.

Continual expansion of kiwifruit shoots provides a challenge for maintaining protective barriers. Therefore, coppers

Green tip to flowering

need to be continually applied. Last

From green tip the kiwifruit vine

year’s work with Ambitious showed

produces soft shoots, which are easily

significant reductions in leaf spotting

Out now! Visit a Farmlands store near you for your copy of the 2014 Hort Catalogue.

G YOUET TOD RS AY!

A visual guide t you need in Hor WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |

NUTRITION

Rearing orphan lambs Rearing orphan lambs can be both a profitable and rewarding process and can give you piece of mind that you are capturing all of the production potential of your prolific flock.

hours of life, with the first feed given

Sheep fertility has increased

digestible milk powder is essential for

significantly in recent years, with

supporting good lamb growth rates.

the New Zealand average lambing

Milligans ‘Multi Milk Replacer’ is a great

percentage jumping from 100 percent

choice, as it is specially formulated

in the 1980s to more than 130 percent

to meet the requirements of growing

these days, with top performing sheep

young animals. Abomasal bloat can

farmers attaining in excess of 150

be an issue when rearing lambs.

percent. This is due to a combination

Mixing a yoghurt culture in with milk

of genetics along with improved

can be helpful in preventing bloat, as

animal health and better feeding. More

it contains probiotics (which helps to

prolific breeds of sheep are becoming

control the harmful bacteria that can

increasingly popular e.g. Wiltshires

cause bloating).

have an average lambing percentage of 190-210 percent. The trade off to increasing reproductive performance is the concurrent issue of increasing orphan lamb mortality rate. For example, lamb survivability decreases to 77 percent for triplets, compared to singles and twins, which are 90 percent and 88 percent respectively, as demonstrated by a Paukawa trial. Genetic potential and economic gain is being lost if live lambs born are not reared – rearing orphan lambs offers the opportunity to maximise productivity and Farmlands can provide you with all of the tools necessary to do so successfully.

as quickly as possible after birth. Colostrum intake should continue for 3 to 4 days following birth, to ensure optimum lamb immunity and health. A nutritionally balanced and highly

Profitable lamb rearing is reliant on good rumen development, to support early weaning and minimise postweaning growth checks. Hard feed stimulates papillae development in the rumen and should be offered to lambs ad-lib from day one, in order to prepare

improve gut health. Both products also contain 18 percent protein, which is adequate for good frame and muscle growth – which is important when the goal is healthy, well-grown lambs. Reliance Lamb Feeds can also be used to promote fast growing lambs on ewes, or where there is a large number of twins and triplets and the quantity of milk is limiting growth rates. Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Technical Product Manager, Farmlands Nutrition

them for digesting high fibre pasture. Reliance Feeds has a few options to choose from that are specifically designed for lambs, which have quite different requirements compared to calves. Lamb StartMix is a muesli style feed, which is perfect for younger lambs, as its molassed nature makes it highly attractive to animals new to hard feed. Lamb Performance Pellets

Colostrum is the key to orphan lamb

are another great option. Both Reliance

survivability. It is crucial to feed lambs

products contain Gutboosta, which

10 percent of their body weight in good

is a unique blend of essential oils and

quality colostrum, with high levels of

prebiotics to stimulate feed intake and

immunoglobulins, within the first 12

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 49

NUTRITION

Soy hulls - a good source of digestible fibre Soy hulls (Bran) are a useful by-product from the human food industry, being obtained during dehulling of soya beans, prior to crushing. Argentinian soy hulls are now available in New Zealand as a pellet. Their high fibre content makes the pellets friable but acceptability to cows is reportedly good. They require no further processing prior to feeding and can be fed as a straight, mixed into blends or incorporated into compound feeds. They are considered a good source of digestible fibre, with an average protein content and reasonable energy levels. They are better suited to ruminant and equine than monogastric diets, so prices are not influenced by the seemingly ever increasing demand for pork and poultry.

a significant portion coming from fat, as is the case with palm kernel expeller. By-and-large pasture based cows have a surplus of protein and lack of fermentable energy in the rumen, so the readily fermentable nature and lower protein level of soy hulls, compared to palm kernel expeller, would be considered to enhance feed efficiency. They contain more calcium than grains and palm kernel expeller. Soy Hulls (Bran) Typical Analysis Dry Matter 91% Crude protein 11.5% ME 11 MJ/kg DM NDF 67% Crude Fat 2.5% Calcium 0.60% Lignin 3%

The typical analysis values for soy hulls,

feed for cows and are likely to make an increasingly significant contribution to feeding the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dairy herd going forward. Please contact your local

shown later, potentially underestimates

Farmlands store for more information

their value as a supplement for pasture

Soy hulls contain very little starch and

based dairy cows. For example, whilst

some sugar, can be fed without any fear

the NDF at 67 percent looks very similar

with respect to rumen acidosis and with

to that quoted for palm kernel expeller,

only 2.5 percent oil will not upset rumen

less than 5 percent of the NDF in soy

fermentation. They are a good option

hulls is in the form of largely indigestible

during a feed pinch to fill a forage deficit.

lignin. This is compared to 18 percent of

Whilst soy hulls would have less effect

the NDF in palm kernel expeller being in

on milk protein production compared

the form of lignin. Also, soy hulls contain

to grains, they are favoured globally for

a significant portion of pectin. Pectin is a

high yielding dairy cows to support milk

structural polysaccharide that is rapidly

butterfat production â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially during

digested by rumen microflora but without

the spring, when pasture fibre levels can

the rumen acidosis risks associated with

fall. They are not associated with any

starch and sugars. Also, whilst the ME

particular anti-nutritive factors such as

is comparable to the level assumed for

toxins, environmental or

palm kernel expeller, it is largely being

biosecurity concerns, which are linked

derived from digestible fibre, rather than

to some straights.

50 | THE FARMLANDER

Soya hulls are reliable, consistent, safe

about pricing and availability. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist, Farmlands Nutrition

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

Limestone flour

CHEAP AS CHIPS BUT SURPRISINGLY VALUABLE

Limestone flour contains 33-38 percent elemental calcium, which might be considered a Cinderella amongst minerals. It works hard with little recognition and looks plain at first sight - but if you dig deeper is a gem that deserves attention.

transmission of nerve impulses and the

The National Research Council puts the

contraction of muscles. It’s not surprising

calcium requirement of lactating cows

then that low blood calcium levels can

at 6-8g/kg DM, which is generally met

cause Milk Fever – characterised by

by pasture - especially if it contains

muscular spasms, paralysis and in severe

a significant clover content, as clover

cases death. At a sub-clinical level,

contains on average around 14g/kg

calcium deficiency will cause reduced

calcium. Many supplements used to

and depraved appetite (including digging-

support milk production energetically

up and eating laneways), loss of weight

are however poor sources of calcium,

and reduced fertility. Limestone flour is

e.g. barley (0.5g/kg DM), wheat (0.6g/

the most cost effective source of calcium

kg DM), maize silage (1.9g/kg DM), palm

available. The rock source at each quarry

kernel expeller (2.5g/kg DM) and broll

determines the purity and freedom

(1.5g/kg DM). Cows may also benefit

from heavy metals and the degree of

from calcium supplementation beyond

processing affects ease of use for in-feed

the colostrum period. Compound feeds

or dusting.

typically contain added limestone flour to

teeth. It is a key component in milk (about

Milk Fever is most likely to occur

help maintain a balanced diet, or calcium

1.2-1.5g calcium per kg milk), as the

immediately post calving, especially with

can be included in mineral pellets fed

cow tries to ensure its offspring receives

older and higher yielding cows. Giving

alongside rolled grain.

enough calcium – even if its own bone

colostrum cows 150g/day limestone

The dry matter intake of cows often

calcium has to be mobilised to meet

flour (or up to double that if dusting when

declines when they are bulling and high

the demand. Calcium is essential for

conditions are poor) will generally help

oestrogen levels can inhibit calcium

the activity of a number of key enzyme

cows maintain blood calcium levels,

mobilisation from bones, which can

systems, including those involved in the

whilst their mobilisation mechanisms are

predispose them to Milk Fever 2 to 3

kicking into action.

months post calving. Cows will be more

Calcium is an essential mineral, which can have a major impact on the profitability and health of dairy cows, especially as dairy farming moves away from predominantly clover-rich pasture only systems. Calcium is the most abundant mineral element in animals, with about 98 percent of the total body calcium being found in the skeleton and

susceptible if they have not replenished their bone calcium reserves in late lactation – older, higher yielding cows are at most risk of gradually reducing their reserves. Even outside of the high-risk Milk Fever period, it is worth considering if your cows would benefit from additional supplementary calcium, which is a safe nutrient not associated with any specific toxicity. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist, Farmlands Nutrition

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 51

NUTRITION

Maximising intakes post calving Well-bred dairy cows the world over have the same problem – by breeding for milk production, we have selected cows with an ability to produce milk, which is greater than their ability to consume feed in early lactation. Most cows tend to reach peak milk production five to seven weeks after calving but they achieve maximum feed capacity intake about 10 to 12 weeks after calving. Even if housed and presented a total mixed diet, high genetic merit cows will produce more milk than their intake can support and experience a negative energy balance in early lactation. Reducing weight loss helps cows to peak higher and start cycling sooner after calving and with each successive cycle they are more likely to conceive. A diet containing 12.0MJ ME/kg DM and about 35 percent NDF (neutral detergent fibre) is a good target for cows in early lactation. To average 12.0 MJ ME/kg DM, the forage consumed must have a high digestibility and low fibre levels, which ensures that high dry matter intakes are achievable - good pasture management is critical and high quality preserved forages are beneficial. Often we expect good grass silage to contain 11.0MJ ME/kg DM but harvesting is often delayed due to the weather or desire for bulk and MEs closer to 10MJ ME/kg DM are often more realistic. If low protein grass silage or maize silage is being fed, it is worthwhile checking milk urea figures, as a lack of protein can limit both production and appetite.

| THE FARMLANDER

Lower quality forage gives cows a double

which will provide fermentable energy

whammy – its lower digestibility means

at different times between meals. For

it will take longer to digest, so intakes

example, some molasses can be useful

drop and each kg will deliver less energy

to fuel rumen fermentation very quickly

for production. Forage intake can be

after consumption but 90 percent could

compromised during cold, wet weather.

have been fermented within an hour of

Cows may be full but not fully fed –

consumption at milking time. Wheat

weight loss could be reduced and milk

takes longer to ferment - barley, maize

production increased if the diet contained

and byproducts even longer. Compound

more concentrated, lower fibre feeds.

feeds offer the ability to bring together

High starch grains and grain based

a range of complementary energy and

compound feeds fed in the dairy shed

protein sources and include major

have the advantage of a high energy

minerals, trace minerals and additives,

and low fibre content and they can

which may be more expensive and time

be consumed during milking without

consuming to deliver outside of the

impacting on grazing time. Blends

dairy shed.

containing some starch that can be fed

North Island dairy farmers can now pick

in troughs on a feedpad can support

from a plethora of straights, blends and

greater milk production than low starch

compound feeds. The NRM Nutrition

straights, which can be fed free access.

Team is committed to helping farmers

Feedstuffs ferment at different rates

choose wisely.

in the rumen, so when feeding only at milking time it can be beneficial to

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

include a range of energy sources,

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

How you feed your calf can influence its future potential as a milk producer It starts in the calf shed

All of the calves were then grazed

gut flora. Queen of Calves ‘FINISHER’,

The calf rearing process is arguably

together as one mob after weaning

fed day 19 to weaning, contains selected

the most important task on any dairy

until herd entry and their subsequent

marine and land plants that, when added

farm. The milk-rearing phase is a one-

lactational performance as 2 year olds

to milk, enables milk to form a stronger

off opportunity to invest in the future

was measured. Of particular relevance

curd. The stronger curd is retained in the

of your herd. Local research shows

was the finding that the Queen of Calves-

simple stomach for 80 minutes longer

calves reared on a nutrition programme

raised heifers had a 12 percent greater

than milk on its own. Both the STARTER

can produce more milk in their first

milk yield in their first lactation, despite

and FINISHER products are not calf

lactation than calves raised otherwise

the fact that both mobs of heifers entered

milk replacers. They need to be mixed

in identical manner - but minus the

the herd at the same stature, weight and

with colostrum, stored colostrum and/

addition of New Zealand-made ‘Queen of

condition score. This finding supports

or whole milk. Because of the restricted

Calves’ STARTER and Queen of Calves

the experience of many Queen of Calves

milk volume recommended by the

FINISHER to their daily milk.

users and also demonstrates the effect of

manufacturer, calves require unrestricted

Massey University research,

diet on the developing udder tissue.

access to quality calf meal and fibre, to

peer-reviewed and published in

Queen of Calves,

ensure proper rumen development and

the world’s most prestigious

available at Farmlands

energy for growth.

scientific dairy journal

There are two Queen of Calves products

Based on the trial results and using a $7/

In 2007, Massey University undertook

- both are powders and they must be

kg payout, a 12 percent increased milk

a trial to compare the growth rates of

mixed with milk at every milk feed.

production as a 2 year old alone could

calves that were raised on a conventional

‘STARTER’ is fed day 2 to 18. It is a

be expected to be worth $230 of extra

calf diet, with calves that received Queen

powerful probiotic that supports the

income on this $80 investment.

of Calves in their daily milk until weaning.

calf’s immune function and enhances

Article supplied by Bell Booth.

QUEEN OF CALVES STARTER 20KG

QUEEN OF CALVES FINISHER 20KG

• Proven scientifically to enhance milk production. • Trialled in New Zealand. • Trial work supports the observations of local farmers. • The only NZ calf nutrition programme to have its results published by the Journal of Dairy Science.

• Slows down the simple stomach release by 80 minutes. • Enables calves to get more nutrition out of their milk. • Drives appetite, encourages consumption of calf meal and fibre to promote rumen development.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |

NUTRITION

Special stock require specialist nutrition Sir Edwin Landseer’s famous painting The Monarch of the Glen, which depicts a bulky, antlered stag reigning supreme in a Scottish Highlands wilderness, is somewhat misleading.

is seasonally adaptive, being smallest

been specially formulated to provide

in the winter, when forage availability

essential nutrients to maintain weight,

is limiting and presumably predators

as well as to improve antler growth and

would have been keener. Equipped

development in red deer, elk or wapiti.

with a smaller fermentation vessel, deer

Energy, protein, vitamins, minerals

focused on browsing for higher quality

and trace elements are supplied in a

Red deer are thought to have originated

grazing when seasonally available, as

fully processed nut, which not only

in much warmer climates – possibly

opposed to sheep and cattle. Despite

increases digestibility compared to

the Southern Mediterranean. Free from

being late-comers to the relatively

whole or cracked grains but also

the need to store body fat to survive

small group of domesticated farmed

significantly decreases waste in the

long, cold winters, nature rewarded

animals, deer therefore have some key

paddock. They provide high levels of

the brave who laid down energetically

attributes that makes them superbly

important vitamins and minerals, which

efficient muscle rather than fat with fast

equipped to make efficient, profitable

are lacking in grains but are important

growth and the ability to win battles for

use of high quality pasture, forages and

for stag health and antler growth. Deer

desirable mates. But it also left their

supplementary feeding. In recent years,

Elite Nuts contain additional energy in

ancestors poorly equipped as calves to

Reliance Feeds has worked closely with

the form of by-pass fat, which delivers

deal with Highland winters. Evolutionary

commercial deer farmers in the South

metabolisable energy in a form that will

pressures have blessed red deer with

Island to develop high performance

not disrupt rumen function.

a lean carcass – which is especially

feeds, which are now available through

appealing to Northern Europeans – and

Weaners experience a growth spurt in

the Farmlands network nationally.

August in response to extending day

Antler and velvet growth is a massive

length. Supplementary feeding can

annual challenge for stags. Around

help ensure target carcass weights

button drop, which normally occurs in

are achieved whilst prices are still

August, all stags would benefit from

favourable. Deer Performance Nuts

Reliance Deer Elite Nuts. They have

have been designed for both hinds

antlers that are favoured by trophy hunters and supplement manufacturers. Graduates of the flight rather than fight school of survival, deer opted for a smaller rumen than cows and one that

and fawns to help maintain weight and production. Fully mineralised, they contain high quality rumen bypass protein and rumen degradable protein to help support milk production. They can be fed on the ground with minimal waste and can be deposited in long lines or piles, so each animal gets a fair share. For stags that have lost weight during the roar, palm kernel free Reliance Deer Performance Nuts can be fed for weight gain. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist, Farmlands Nutrition

| THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Good power is integral to everything on-farm When Richard and Annabelle Subtil bought the PEL 418 Unigizer Solar System, the whole idea was to futureproof themselves, so they could keep fencing their 300 hectare block into smaller and smaller paddocks. The plan is to reduce down to five hectare lots, which eventually could run independently as a small farm in itself. The couple are developing one of the many remote blocks of the 12,000 hectare Omarama Station in North Otago, which has been in Annabelle’s family since 1919. Due to the relative isolation and lack of access to mains electricity, developing many of these blocks tucked away on the South Island hill country property has been difficult and relatively unachievable. The option to put mains electricity in place was massively expensive and prohibitive, so the decision to install a solar system at a fraction of the cost was not a difficult choice to make. “Without good power we can’t do anything. It is completely integral to everything we do. We need good heat and good power to keep the animals in,”

Richard says. “The PEL Solar System

has been second to none. Tru-Test

is ideal.

Representatives are also happy to

“We run 19,000 merino sheep and

come out on-farm and assist with the

1,200 cattle and use a combination of

installation,” Richard says.

permanent fencing and break fencing in

In time, Richard and Annabelle plan to

the winter. Running at about 10,000 volts,

develop similar remote blocks with the

we have confidence that the animals we

help of the PEL Unigizer Solar Systems

have there are going to stay there.”

and look forward to bringing much more of

Designed to work in the worst weather

the grand 12,000 hectare station to life.

and in the most difficult country regardless

PEL’s Unigizer Solar System range

of sunshine hours, climatic conditions or

includes options to power from 10km (6ha)

temperature variation, the Solar System

of fencing right up to 180km (110ha) and is

delivers reliable and affordable power.

available through Farmlands.

To accommodate different farm sizes

Article supplied by Tru-Test Group.

and variances in available sunshine hours throughout New Zealand, there is a range of PEL unigizers, solar panels and battery options to operate effectively all year round.

PEL 418 UNIGIZER SOLAR SYSTEM 110HA WITH 190W SOLAR SYSTEM PANEL

“Although the temperatures drop, we do get the sunshine down here,” Richard explains. “And with the deep-cycle batteries provided with the system, you’ve got a bit of reserve there. On good, sunny Central Otago winter days, it fills up as much as in summer.” Each PEL Solar System includes a high performance PEL Energizer from the Unigizer range, a quality solar panel and mounting assembly, deep cycle battery, battery box, compass and full instructions. The Unigizer Solar System makes installations hassle-free and includes everything you need to be up and running in a matter of hours. “Setting up a system like this is not something we do very often but it

| PEL 418 Unigizer Solar System.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

was pretty easy to put together. It is a Mechano-type system and the support

OTHER OPTIONS ALSO AVAILABLE

THE FARMLANDER |

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

South Canterbury stock water development Remus and Magda Coman immigrated to New Zealand from Romania in 2000. Currently they are 50/50 sharemilkers and purchased their St. Andrews, South Canterbury property in October 2013, as a dairy support block. The 195 hectares of rolling country consists of Claremont and Waitohi silt loam soils and supports 1,100 head of MA dairy heifers, with the potential to increase to 1,700 head.

to arrive, the water issue hadn’t been

pipe was selected as the mainline pipe

addressed and we were having a

from the tanks, down to the troughs.

few sleepless nights!”

The GPS data gathered during the

“A number of things needed to be

survey allowed easy selection of the

assessed,” Dell-lane says. “Water

best pipeline route, optimum placement

source and storage, total daily water

of the 1,500 litre troughs and precise

requirement, type of system and most

scheduling of the metres of pipe

efficient pipeline route.” Dell-lane

required. Specification of Plasson

undertook a survey of the farm utilising

metric compression fittings simplified

GPS technology, to determine spot

the installation process. The easy

heights and distances. “Water was being

push-fit and tighten pipe coupling

At the time, the farm’s water system

sourced from the Timaru DC community

made for rapid connections and a

was geared towards sheep and was in

water scheme. Given the high ‘daily

water-tight pipeline system.

poor condition, with low flow issues and

water demand’ it was decided to add

Farmlands coordinated the supply

leaking fittings. Prior to purchasing the

an additional four 30,000 litre rotational

logistics of pipe, fittings, valves, tanks

property, Remus approached Harley

moulded PE tanks to the existing water

and troughs, with delivery direct to the

Smithson at Farmlands Timaru, to find

storage tank. It was fortunate that this

farm. Remus and Magda are very happy

out more about stock water requirements

bank of tanks was situated at a height

with their new stock water system.

for dairy grazing. After the purchase,

sufficient to provide enough ‘static head’

“Farmlands and Iplex listened to our

Harley arranged for Dell-lane Millard

for the farm water to be supplied by a

needs and responded in a quick and

from Iplex Pipelines to meet with Remus

‘natural gravity’ reticulation system.”

efficient manner,” Remus says. “We felt

and Magda, to talk through the options.

After consultation with the Comans,

we were in ‘safe hands’,” Magda says.

In Magda’s words, “Stock was about

40mm 6.3-bar Greenline Metric OD PE

“The transition to the new water system was stress free.” Dell-lane adds, “A quick turnaround time from design to product supply was important on this job. Working together with Farmlands, we were able to meet Remus and Magda’s expectations and provide a stock water system that will stand the test of time.” Thinking about developing, upgrading or adding to your current stock water system? Call the knowledgeable team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Iplex.

| System plan.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER |