Effective methods of Grassland Drilling

Method 1

Where a cut of silage is being taken, and the field is going to grazing, cut low to the ground and direct drill the new grass seed mixture the next day. There should be enough moisture retained in the soil to germinate the seed and get it growing before the cut sward can fully recover. Graze with young stock or sheep about 3 to 4 weeks later in order to keep the existing sward down, allowing the new seedling enough moisture and light to get established.

Method 2

Graze the sward bare using a Mob stocking technique. Drill the sward, and keep the stock on until the new shoots are visible, remove the stock and regraze 3 to4 weeks later.

Method 3

Graze the pasture as bare as possible, then spray with Gramoxone (1 pint/acre) and direct drill the new seeds mixture. Gramoxone used at a low rate will not kill the old grass sward but should retard its growth sufficiently to get the new seeds established. The chemical ASULOX can be used instead of Gramoxone. This chemical gives good control of docks and some weed greased, and retards growth of existing rye-grass (short term) To allow new seedlings to establish.

Method 4

If the pasture has been badly poached or there are bad patches due to frost kill etc. over the winter, new grass seeds should be drilled just before growth starts (March/April).

Method 5

Where the old pasture is very weedy and a complete reseed is required, spray with Roundup (pre or post harvest) to get a total kill of all vegetation. Leave the field for the recommended period, and direct drill with a new seeds mixture. To get a better grass cover, cross drilling at an angle is recommended.