The test of ripeness in grassland – finding the right time to mow with SCHAUMANN

Finding the optimal harvest period is the biggest challenge in producing high-quality grass silage. If the ideal time is missed, valuable nutrients are lost. With its grassland ripeness test, SCHAUMANN documents the development of representative areas on the Hülsenberg estate in Wahlstedt (Schleswig-Holstein) with detailed analyses, helping to determine the optimal cutting time more accurately.

The ingredients and growth rate of grasses are constantly changing. Factors such as temperature, sunlight, precipitation, and grass stock control the point at which the ideal 22-24% crude fiber in dry matter (DM) is reached. If the crude fiber content is increased by 1% in DM before mowing, this reduces the energy concentration by 0.1 MJ NEL/kg DM and the crude protein content of the grass silage by 3-4 g/kg DM. The lost nutrients must be compensated for in the feed with concentrated feed. This puts a strain not only on the wallet but also on the farm's material flow balance.

In order to monitor developments in grassland, SCHAUMANN documents its detailed cut maturity test from the beginning of April. To this end, developments are assessed on three grassland areas with different stocks at the Hülsenberg estate. Fresh grass samples are taken from the stocks twice a week and analyzed by ISF Schaumann Research. In addition to the important ripeness parameter of crude fiber, changes in crude protein and sugar content as well as lactic acid bacteria on the plant are determined. The results are evaluated by SCHAUMANN and the cutting date is calculated. Every week, the analysis results, forecasts, and explanations are published on www.bonsilage.de.

SCHAUMANN invites you to accompany our grassland areas on their journey to becoming finished silage. Experience the advantages of regular analysis by ISF Schaumann Research and join us in focusing on the basis of your yields: your grassland.