Revisit your three Rs – Refresh, Restore and Rejuvenate and unlock hidden profit

As more farmers see the benefits of soil conditioning and grassland maintenance, OPICO are perfectly placed to help farmers to reduce their feed costs, improve soil health and increase their profits by achieving greater yields from their grassland.

OPICO Sward Lifter

Removing compaction from grassland is beneficial on all farms and is widely acknowledged to improve soil health, boost grass growth and allow earthworm populations to increase; it also benefits herd management as the improved drainage will enable an earlier turnout and extended autumn grazing. 

However, as well as addressing compaction and grass productivity, there are many hidden benefits in looking after your swards.  Sward lifted fields can improve animal health by reducing pressure from parasites (eg drying out the soil reduces the challenge from liver fluke in sheep) as well boosting rumen efficiency and even fertility in cows!

OPICO Grass Harrow and Seeder

Reseeding is an important part of grassland management on any farm and is essential for maintaining productive grassland.  Well-managed grass is the cheapest feed for ruminants. Renewing pastures regularly is important to maximise productivity and maintain feed quality.  Whether reseeding or overseeding, OPICO’s grass harrow and seeder is well-equipped to do the job.

Successful establishment can be achieved in spring and autumn and there are pros and cons to both times. However, in a recent AHDB survey around 2/3 of respondents reseeded in the autumn, with 1/3 reseeding in the spring.  Whenever reseeding happens it is extremely important to consolidate the seedbed afterwards to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, reduce water loss and help to control pest issues.