Recent rainfall will bring some relief to grass growth after a prolonged dry and near record-breaking hot spring, but concerns remain over grazing quality and quantity so farmers are being advised to seek cost-effective ways to supplement cattle at grass.

A lot of pasture and grassland will be at risk of falling short of quality and quantity following the warm and dry spell, explains Dr Richard Wynn, head of technical at Crystalyx.

“AHDB’s latest ‘Forage for Knowledge’ data highlights the variability in regional grass growth, with warm days, cool nights and limited rainfall until now contributing to slow growth and inconsistent pasture quality across many grazing platforms,” he says.

“Grass growth rates have been reported as averaging 47.3 kg DM/ha as of 22 May, a notable drop compared to 73.9 kg DM/ha recorded this time last year.

“While rain will improve soil moisture and help grass rebound in some regions, growth remains variable and behind massively for this key point in the season. Some areas in the North and Wales, for example, report as low as 22.9 kg DM/ha, indicating pasture may struggle to meet demand—particularly if dry conditions return. The seven-day growth forecast suggests modest increases, with the South and Scotland expecting 27.9 and 43.0 kg DM/ha respectively, but recovery will take time, especially where soils were driest.”

Dr Wynn’s advice follows a recent National Drought Group meeting convened by the Environment Agency, which highlighted concerns over ongoing conditions and urged preparation among water companies for the potential activation of dry weather plans.

“Some fields might look green and productive, but as grass matures and starts to head, digestibility falls, which can directly impact milk yield

“This significantly limits what nutrients cattle can extract from grazing and can compromise performance if left unaddressed,” he adds.

Dr Wynn suggests one of the simplest and most efficient ways to supplement cattle at grass is with a feed lick, to maintain overall productivity during unpredictable conditions.

“Stimulating increased forage intake and digestibility with a molasses-based feed lick, such as Crystalyx Cattle Booster, will pay dividends in terms of improved DLWG, better fertility and milk quality and enhanced overall health,” he says.

The benefits of supplementation at grass have been research-backed by the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), which found that heifers given Crystalyx Cattle Booster over a 45-day period grew an average of 28% faster than those without.

This delivered an impressive additional profit of £32.68 per head, an 8:1 return on investment, making it clear that supplementation really stacks up*.

Another consideration this year following the recent conditions is the surge in insect activity — raising concerns over summer mastitis and the risk of midge borne diseases like Bluetongue.

“A feed lick that also includes a natural insect repellent such as garlic could prove particularly valuable this season,” advises Dr Wynn.
“Crystalyx Garlyx, for example, is suitable for all livestock and contains a concentrated garlic compound which is metabolised and secreted through the skin, forming a natural deterrent to biting insects — while also delivering a full complement of essential vitamins and minerals.”

Normally a late-season issue, the unseasonably hot spring means farmers need to act now to protect livestock, particularly those with animals grazed in fields near woodland, high hedges, and water sources.