Fresh grass yields increased by 31.25%
SlurryForSoil increased fresh grass yields by 31.25% and dry matter yields by 26% in a separated slurry trial hosted by Harper Adams University (HAU).
Two separate slurry stores, fed from the University’s housed dairy herd, enabled the researchers to compare the performance of treated vs untreated slurry in a split field trial. Results showed that for every £1 spent on SlurryForSoil, the field yielded £18 worth of additional forage.
“We’re really pleased with this result but it’s not unusual,” says Geoff Hooper, Director of Sylgen Animal Health, manufacturer of SlurryForSoil.
“The combination of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria and importantly, fungi, in SlurryForSoil increase grassland productivity in a number of ways. Not only do they effectively capture the nutrients in the slurry, but have scientifically proven to mobilise nutrients in soil, improve soil structure, and improve plant health. In effect, they turn slurry into a biologically active fertiliser.”
In the trial, a full dose of SlurryForSoil was applied to one of two 5,000m3 tower silos on 14th December 2023, followed with a half dose 12 weeks later. The resulting slurry was applied on one of two halves of a field that was later cut for silage.
“Treating the slurry stores was quick and easy,” says Harper Adams University Crops and Farm Operations Sector Manager, Chris Ruffley. “We mixed up the SlurryForSoil with warm water, left it in the IBC and then added it to our slurry store.”
Both the treated and untreated slurries were applied at rate of 50t/ha. Grass samples were taken ahead of two of the three silage cuts, and analysed by Sciantec labs.
“Visually there wasn’t much difference between the two halves of the field, the main difference was the yield, which was significant. I used that word carefully – a 20% increase in dry matter yield is massive,” says Chris.
“When I first heard about SlurryForSoil, I was very sceptical. Many products claim to do x, y and z, but few deliver. Even when there’s data, you’ve no idea what conditions the trials were done under and the results will replicate on your own farm.
“In this trial, we kept as much as we could the same to get a direct comparison. And while there’s a small chance that slurry going into the two tanks were different in quality, it seems highly unlikely – the cows are all in the same herd, housed indoors, fed the same rations. The field was fairly consistent too.”
“I was surprised and encouraged by the results.”
Using forage prices at the time of harvest, Sylgen Animal Health calculated that SlurryForSoil offered a return on investment of £323.03/ha or £18.02 for every pound spend on the product.
“Not only is SlurryForSoil proving it’s worth financially, with its ability to reduce the need for synthetic fertiliser, it can also lower the carbon emissions associated with dairy production,” adds Geoff.