With the closed period coming to an end on farms in Zone A, and with the remaining Zones due to open later in the month, this doesn’t necessarily mean that this is the best time to spread nitrogen (N) fertiliser.

It is well known that the lack of N in the soil can be a limiting factor in spring-grass growth, but the timing and rate of fertiliser N application are key decisions that need to be taken into consideration by every livestock farmer.

The appropriate application of early N is beneficial; while the incorrect application of early N is wasteful, costly, pollutes water and increases greenhouse gas emissions, according to Teagasc.

Teagasc has released some key ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’ to guide you in your decisions around early fertiliser application, to help prevent incorrect application of N.