Autumn is a good time to look at pasture renovation, as pasture renewal or renovation is an effective means of keeping it performing to its maximum.

Pasture renewal needs to be done on a more regular basis if legumes are present. Legumes provide ideal forage and diversity, but they have a relatively short lifespan and can disappear quickly in less than ideal conditions, such as drought, overgrazing or competition from either grasses or weeds.

New pastures will provide a number of benefits; the main one being more growth annually. It will improve feed quality by increasing protein content and quality; and will provide more metabolisable energy, or more energy per hectare, and should cut down the need for nitrogen applications. It will also offer higher mineral concentrations, especially calcium and magnesium, which will help prevent animal health problems leading to improved animal performance in both mating and production.

Before renovation, soil needs to be tested and then fertilised based on test results. It is good to use a biologically active fertiliser that will assist the plant in establishing a good and healthy root depth, which translates to improved pasture performance and less likelihood of pulling, pugging and associated problems. If legumes are present in the new pasture, do not initially apply nitrogen as this will only promote grass growth and inhibit legume establishment. Legumes need to be well-established before grazing if they are to endure in pasture.

Revital Fertilisers offers a full testing service and recommendations, based on biologically active fertilisers (vermicast and composts) that will provide a plethora and diversity of microbial life, assisting pasture to get the very best start by offering the plant all essential nutrients in a plant-available form. Scientific results show humic acid from vermicast enhances root extension and formation of denser roots; and will improve seed germination and seedling growth, increasing plant productivity.

Revital has production facilities in Cambridge and Mount Maunganui. I've been with Revital Fertilisers for 14 years and recently became the principal Cambridge representative. I look forward to meeting with Waikato farmers to discuss improvements to pastures. An inspection tour of our facility is most welcome and can be arranged by contacting me: Maureen Rabbidge on 0274 408881.