Now a new study backs up Tow and Fert’s work, confirming dairy farmers can reduce nitrogen fertiliser costs by up to 39 per cent per litre of milk produced, without compromising yield, by using foliar feeding.
Published in a European Innovation Partnership Wales report, the findings support a 2013 study in New Zealand, which demonstrated the efficiency of foliar feeding in improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) while maintaining pasture productivity.
Trials across four dairy farms in Wales compared conventional granular nitrogen fertilisers with foliar-applied nitrogen, which is absorbed directly through the leaves.
The results showed up to 315 per cent higher NUE in foliar-fed systems, requiring significantly less nitrogen to achieve similar dry matter yields.
“Foliar feeding has opened my eyes to a new way of fertilising,” said one participating farmer. “Not only have I seen a reduction in costs, but it’s also been effective in dry and cool conditions where traditional methods struggle.”
Tow and Fert is revolutionising fertiliser application, helping farmers reduce inputs while growing nutrient-dense, resilient pastures.
By optimising NUE, farmers can boost animal health, promote beneficial microbes and enhance soil vitality, all while lowering costs and improving sustainability.
One of the biggest challenges farmers face today is the rising cost of inputs.
Tow and Fert sprayers provide a practical, results-driven solution, allowing farmers to apply fertiliser more efficiently, reduce waste and improve pasture growth.
Whether it’s dissolving nitrogen or phosphorus and other granular fertiliser products for foliar application, applying lime flour, oversowing small seeds, or integrating biological products, Tow and Fert gives farmers greater flexibility and control over their fertiliser program.
Find the full research paper at: https://businesswales.gov.wales/farmingconnect/sites/farmingconnect/files/documents/EIP%20Foliar%20Feed%20-%20Final%20technical%20report%20-%20March%2022.pdf
