News &
Insights

As winter feeding commences, Fane Valley Feeds’ Ruminant Nutritionist Dr David Johnston outlines some practices farmers should employ to maximise efficiency during the coming months. With most cows housed in recent weeks due to adverse weather conditions, many dairy farmers across Northern Ireland are keen to maximise silage use within their milk production systems this…

The rumen plays an essential role in a cow’s digestive system. It is like a large fermentation vat hiving with microbes that break down the animal’s feed so as it can be absorbed and used for energy. To ensure the animal is efficient and healthy the rumen must be functioning well and must have a…

With the increasing price of chemical fertiliser ensuring your pH is correct is even more important than ever. Grassland soils should have a minimum pH 6.3 and cereal soils minimum pH 6.5 for optimum production. With recent reseeds and the commencement of autumn cereal drilling, it is critical to lime and ensure your crops establish…

Variety selection and making the most of the genetic advances of new varieties has become an increasingly important part of integrated crop management to help reduce the risk of pests, disease and weed problems on farm. One of the latest genetic advances in the armoury for virus control is the BYDV tolerant variety Amistar from…

Maize silage is an excellent feed for both dairy and beef cattle due to the starch, energy and intake characteristics. With crops almost ready to harvest and a lot of money already invested in the crop it is vital to get the harvest and ensiling right to get the best return on your investment.  …

Fane Valley is delighted to show its support once again to Balmoral Show after the COVID-19 pandemic put a hold to Northern Ireland’s premium agricultural show last year. Fane Valley Feeds will sponsor the Holstein and Hereford livestock classes and is looking forward to engaging with all the class participants and overall winners. Speaking at…

The 2021 cereal harvest is well under way with good weather allowing for timely harvesting and getting straw baled and under cover for the winter.  With fields cleared our thoughts turn to autumn drilling and variety selection for the season ahead.  There are a wide range of varieties on the market, each with its own…

Soil sampling of arable soils during August and September is ideal as the crops have been harvested, it has been several months since nutrients have been applied and the fertility of the soil can be assessed prior to planting the next crop. Until the end of September Fane Valley are offering a 10% discount on…

Reseeding is a significant investment of both money and time and therefore it is important that the right decisions are made to maximise its potential. 1. Get the soil right. Address any issues with the soil wither that is fertility or drainage. Assess the field for any spots which may require drainage and correct the…