Farmers should consider testing slurry to gain a further understanding of the nutrients available ahead of the restrictions being lifted.

Slurry has become one of the most important assets on farms, as prices of chemical fertilisers has dramatically increased in previous years as well as stricter restrictions being put in place.

With the slurry spreading period set to open in the coming weeks, appreciating the value of cattle slurry produced on the farm will help farmers make appropriate decisions this spring to ensure the best growth response is achieved.

Slurry should not be thrown out for the sake of it once restrictions lift; it should be treated with the same value as chemical fertilisers by timing its application in conjunction with optimum growing conditions to ensure a good response and efficient use of nutrients.

Value

Over the last number of years, the value of slurry has been estimated to have nearly doubled.

Slurry can be estimated to be worth around €30-€35 per 1,000/gal if you take into account the nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) in it, according to Teagasc.

Its value should not be underestimated, with around 80% of its nutrient value being in the form of P and K, which could prove crucial for farms restricted with P applications.

Farmers with good levels of P in their soil samples already will not have much of an allowance or, if in index four for P, won't have any allowance at all.

Testing slurry

The farm's slurry can be sent off to the lab for testing, with basic testing costing roughly €85 while more detailed samples cost more than €130.

Prices do vary, so it is best to secure a detailed quote first.

Farmers can also choose to carry out testing on the farm using a hydrometer to estimate the nutrient content of the slurry.

Hydrometers can be bought from €50-plus in farm shops or online.

When using a hydrometer, use the following table as a guide.

Whichever sample style you do choose to take, make sure you agitate the slurry tank prior to sucking up a load to take your sample from.

Slurry value will depend on factors such as the animals' diet and the weather conditions.

For example, farms that have open tanks with no cover will have a lower slurry DM and a lower nutrient content.

If the tank is well covered, it generally results in a higher DM and a higher nutrient content.

When slurry testing, make sure to follow all safety protocols, remembering the danger the organic fertiliser can hold.