PIGS AND PASTURE

Shannon News, 29 March 1927, Page 1

PIGS AND PASTURE

TESTS MADE IN CANADA Results of tests conducted at a Canadian experimental fjirm indicate that the judicious use of pastures for growing swine is advisable, both from the standpoint of economy of gains and of promoting the growth that is essential for a bacon pig. During the year, the meal requirement foc« ! 1001 b. of body gain was reduced 2,5 per cent, by the use of pasture crops. Pigs on pasture growth than those fed on a bare lot or in inside pens and were in better condition to continue their growth and put on finish in the autumn. Of the pastures tested, rape proved to be the best, followed by millet and oats in the order named. Rape for pasturing should be sown six to s«.'ven weeks before it is required for use. Rape that becomes coarse before pasturing is unpalatable, while, on the other hand .if pastured too early its carrying capacity will be greatly reduced. One acre of rape hag be-~n found to provide pasture for fifty pigs for fifty days. Four or five pounds of seed per acre is sufficient when sown with a drill. When sown broadcast a little more seed may be used. For best results, says Mr. R. M. Hopper, superintendent of the farm in qupst/on. pigs should not be turned on pasture? until they are three to four months old. The meal ration for pigs on pasture should be a fairly liberal OT:e. They should not be giv«n all they will consume, neither should they be compelled to consume a large amount of forage in order to satisfy their appetites.