Case Study: Lucerne Hay Production
Case Study: ExcelCrop Transforms Lucerne Hay Production at Aorangi Farm
At ExcelCrop, we're committed to empowering farmers to achieve unparalleled success in their agricultural endeavours. The journey of Paul White, owner of Aorangi Farm located in the picturesque Hepburn Shire of Central Victoria, exemplifies the transformative impact of our products on lucerne hay production.
Farm Profile: Aorangi Farm, nestled 15 kilometres west of Woodend, boasts fertile red volcanic soil and receives an average rainfall of 900mm (36 inches) annually. With a size of 16 hectares (40 acres), the farm primarily focuses on dryland lucerne hay production and cattle grazing.
ExcelCrop Application: Paul White's adoption of ExcelCrop's innovative solutions has revolutionised his farming practices. Employing a foliar application method via a boom spray fitted with BLUE Tee Jets, Paul incorporates ExcelCrop into his regimen with precision and efficiency. Mixing one 20-litre drum of ExcelCrop with 600 litres of water, he ensures a targeted application rate of approximately 7 litres per hectare. This strategic approach, preferably after rainfall and later in the day, optimises the product's effectiveness.
Tangible Results: Since integrating ExcelCrop into his hay production process during the 2007 season, Paul has witnessed a remarkable transformation in his lucerne stand. Notably, the stand's density has increased, accompanied by a striking intensification in colour—a visual testament to the product's efficacy. Applying ExcelCrop twice during the growing cycle before the first cut and twice in between cuts, approximately two weeks apart, has become a cornerstone of Paul's approach. Furthermore, the farm has been spared from disease or pest infestations, underscoring the product's role in bolstering plant health and resilience.
Enhanced Soil Health: Paul's commitment to sustainability extends beyond crop productivity to encompass soil health. Monitoring worm populations in the ground has revealed a significant increase, indicative of improved soil conditions—a direct outcome of ExcelCrop's application. By nurturing a thriving ecosystem beneath the surface, ExcelCrop's foliar fertiliser contributes to long-term soil fertility and vitality.
Expanded Grazing Capacity: Beyond hay production, Aorangi Farm leverages ExcelCrop's benefits to enhance its grazing management practices. By fattening and grazing store cattle for approximately three months at the conclusion of the hay season, Paul has successfully increased livestock numbers from 25 to 40 head. This strategic utilisation of ExcelCrop as a lucerne management tool underscores its versatility and value across various aspects of farm operations.
Conclusion: The success story of Aorangi Farm serves as a testament to the transformative potential of ExcelCrop's solutions in modern agriculture. Through strategic application and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Paul White has unlocked new levels of productivity, resilience, and sustainability on his farm.
At ExcelCrop, we remain dedicated to supporting farmers like Paul White in their quest for agricultural excellence, offering innovative solutions that redefine the possibilities of farming and cultivate a brighter future for generations to come.