Subscribe & Follow

Advertise your job vacancies

Efficient feeding during drought

22 Mar 2016

Precision feeding can take the sting out of a drought, according to Dr Chris Landman, a feed specialist and consultant. Roelof Bezuidenhout reports.

©goodluz via 123RF

Drought feeding is a fairly complicated procedure that takes into account the interaction between minerals in the grazed plants and animals under various veld conditions. The interactions vary from area to area, making technical knowledge essential if a farmer wants to feed more efficiently and cheaply.

The complexity of this is well illustrated by copper. Excess copper causes molybdenum deficiency and can deplete zinc in the animal’s liver. Furthermore, iron utilisation depends on copper concentration in the diet. Too much copper can increase blood iron concentration, reducing selenium levels.

Read the full story on Farmer’s Weekly.

Source: Farmer's Weekly

Farmer’s Weekly has a long and proud history of serving South Africa’s agricultural industry. Throughout the years, Farmer’s Weekly has been a clarion for South Africa’s farming community and, the magazine remains fully committed to its original undertaking – the advancement of the interests of farmers and their industry.

Go to: www.farmersweekly.co.za