Exceptional growing conditions have resulted in reports of bumper first-cut silage crops. The increased yields have farmers considering other options for grass fields. If you have more silage than you expected, it is worth considering other options before you apply expensive inputs like fertiliser.If silage stocks were fully used up this spring, making some extra silage this year to give a buffer – if cattle have to be housed earlier than planned or if turn-out is delayed next spring – may be the best option. It is important to give yourself reserves to mitigate against difficult Scottish weather. However, if you had enough silage left over this spring then you may need to look at other options for this ground for the rest of the year.