Nitrates levels in grass

Nitrates in forage can reduce milk yields and cause fertility problems, can turn silage butyric and even cause death in stock.

This Farming Note covers:

• How to ensure grass nitrate levels are down at a safe level before grazing and cutting
• What environmental conditions cause grass to have a higher nitrate content than usual
• How to minimise damage when grass outside of the safe level has to be cut
• Nitrate risks posed by other sources

Issued March 2015.

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Since 1991 Kingshay has been publishing Farming Notes on issues critical to the success of a modern dairy farm business. These briefings provide dairy farmers, large animal vets, farm consultants and other interested parties with the most important and timely information in a concise two-page format. The information contained in our Farming Notes is written and updated by our experts to ensure accuracy and save you time.

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Issued March 2015