Pre-Cut Monitoring of NDF Levels

NDF development of the grass crop offers a scientific basis to help optimise silage quality by informing 1st cut mowing decisions. To optimise 1st cut silage quality it is recommended to cut before the NDF content in pre-cut grass reaches 40%. To achieve this we recommend testing pre-cut grass (1st cut) weekly from mid / end of March to monitor NDF development and also provide information on sugar and free nitrate levels which are important in achieving a quality silage fermentation, as well as careful management of the ensiling process.

Pre-cut NDF Tracker

The graph tracks the average NDF development in samples processed through the Trouw Nutrition GB laboratory leading up to 1st cut. This is a national average and it is important to monitor the situation on individual farms through pre-cut grass testing. 

Update 10th May April 2024

 

The average NDF for this week has remained consistent to the beginning of the week, just above the target of 38-40% DM. High NDF grass risks lower energy first cuts, therefore, regular testing is important for each cut to ensure farmers are cutting at the correct time. A large range in NDF levels from 30.16-56.08% DM is reported, further highlighting the need for individual farms to analyse their grass to understand when to cut for optimal silage quality.

Average sugar levels this week have dropped to 9.63% DM, with the majority below the target of 10% DM which leads to the risk of poor fermentation. If sugars are below 10% DM an additive designed for low sugar forage is recommended to ensure quality fermentation. Crude protein levels have increased slightly to the average figure of 19.25% DM, whilst nitrate levels have increased to 196.90mg/kg.

 

Farmers are urged to submit pre-cut samples to accurately track grass development, especially considering the higher NDF levels observed compared to previous seasons.

Please ensure all details on the submission form are filled in, so we can accurately monitor trends and optimize our reports.

Why monitor NDF development in silage fields?

Grass grows differently every year and silage quality is often reflective of the previous winter. Warm winters where soil temperatures remain above 8 degrees means grass will continue to grow and therefore is more mature. Mature grasses have a higher NDF content and are potentially more lignified earlier in the year, resulting in silages that are less fermentable which could lead to reduce rumen passage rates, lower feed intakes, and lower production when diets are not balanced. When we have seen a cold winter, the grass stops growing with low soil temperatures and the silage season is often later.

Read more about grass nutrient content

How do I take a representative pre-cut fresh grass sample to assess NDF content?

Take a representative Pre-Cut fresh grass sample that comprises of 10 sub-samples taken in an 'X' pattern across the area (two samples at each point on the 'X'). These should be cut with scissors at mower height and then placed into a sample bag.

Clearly label the sample bag with the customer name and sample reference, and complete a forage sample request form including: 

  • Your contact details
  • The full address for the farm including county
  • The sample reference
  • Tick the Pre-Cut grass testing box

Post the sample as soon as possible to the Trouw Nutrition GB laboratory.

N.B. Avoid sending samples on a Friday to avoid delays in the analysis if the sample is received over a weekend.

Pre-Cut Sample Video

How to take grass samples

A video explaining how to take grass samples for analysis at the Trouw Nutrition GB laboratory.

Contact Us

Our Ruminant team consists of:

Mark Hall - Technical Manager Ruminants

Alicia Wilson - Technical Sales Manager Feed Additives

Isabelle England - Technical Account Manager

Nacia Bonnick - Technical Advisor

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