Dairy Farmer Bernard Ging - Gearing up for Silage 2026

Why It Matters

Precise silage timing and strict nutrient control lower feed costs while protecting milk yield, providing a scalable blueprint for dairy operations under tightening environmental rules.

Key Takeaways

• 400 high‑producing Holstein‑Friesian cows on 600 acres farm
• Silage harvested exactly 42 days for optimal quality
• Zero‑grazing silage until mid‑March, then switch to grass
• Strict nutrient management: limited phosphorus, careful potassium to avoid milk fever
• Contractor paid per load, ensuring timely fertilizer and harvest coordination

Summary

Bernard Ging, a dairy farmer near Port Leash, outlines his 2026 silage plan for a herd of 400 high‑producing Holstein‑Friesian cows on 600 acres.

He reports last year’s output of 520 kg solids, 462 kg fat and 373 kg protein with an EVI of 162. Silage is zero‑grazed until mid‑March, after which cows transition to fresh grass. Fertiliser applications include slurry for phosphorus, 60 units of nitrogen, and careful potassium management to avoid milk fever. Cutting dates are rigid; grass is tested and harvested within 24 hours.

Ging stresses the “42‑day gospel” – silage is cut and stored exactly 42 days after fertiliser spread, irrespective of yield, to preserve quality. He coordinates with a contractor paid per load, aligning fertiliser and harvest schedules for consistency.

This disciplined regime delivers low‑cost, high‑quality feed, stabilises milk production, and complies with nutrient‑use regulations, offering a replicable model for dairy farms seeking profitability and environmental stewardship.

Original Description

Bernard Ging, dairy farmer from Portlaoise, Co. Laois shares his real-world experience of balancing good silage yields and quality across multiple silage cuts.

Bernard places a big emphasis on having excellent silage in stock for his high performing spring-calving dairy herd.

He uses this home-grown feed to maintain diet quality and keep feed costs down during early and late lactation, and during periods of summer drought.

Bernard featured on a webinar which took place on Tuesday, 5 May which focused on Gearing up for Silage 2026. Watch it back here https://youtu.be/dUrVaFnID0I