RURAL
Grow More Grass in the Colder Months - Dr Gordon Rajendram Talks Foliar Fertiliser
By Fiona Stephen
At the 2025 “Grow Grass in the Colder Months” Field Day, New Zealand soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram delivered an insightful talk on how strategic foliar fertiliser application is transforming pasture-based farming. Hosted on-farm and designed as a practical “how-to” event, the day focused on helping farmers grow more, higher-quality pasture during the colder months, when traditional systems typically slow to a crawl.
Dr Rajendram explained how foliar fertilisers, specifically Cold Grow, can be used to feed pasture directly through the leaf, delivering nutrients exactly when and where they’re needed. This method improves nitrogen uptake efficiency, reduces environmental loss, and supports continued pasture growth during cooler conditions.
“Applying foliar fertiliser in winter means you’re not relying on soil temperatures to activate the nitrogen,” Dr Rajendram said. “You’re feeding the plant directly, it’s faster, more efficient, and leads to better results with less input.”
Dr Gordon Rajendram
He also highlighted how foliar nutrition supports soil biology by stimulating root exudates, the sugars plants release into the soil, which in turn feed microbes and improve overall soil health. The result is not just more grass, but better-quality pasture with higher nutrient density.
A Q&A session followed, with Dr Rajendram joined by a farmer already using the foliar system and Mike Prendergast from BPM. Moderated by the event organiser, the panel discussed real-world applications and gave attendees a chance to ask questions throughout. The goal was simple: ensure every farmer walked away with practical knowledge they could apply on their farm immediately — no purchases required.
Dr Rajendram’s message was clear: with the right tools and timing, farmers can grow more grass in winter, reduce inputs, and build healthier soils, all while improving profitability and maintaining flexibility on-farm.
