Rob Davies

The savings on fertiliser this year, and the savings on fertiliser last year, will basically pay for the machine.

Farmer: Rob Davies
Location: Carmarthenshire, Wales
Machine: Tow and Fert Multi 2800
Farming System: Dairy

The Challenge

Rob Davies operates a dairy farm in Carmarthenshire, Wales, where rising fertiliser costs and increasing environmental pressure were driving the need for a more efficient nutrient strategy. Like many dairy farmers, Rob had traditionally relied on granular urea to drive pasture growth but was concerned about escalating input costs and the efficiency of nitrogen use.

The Solution

Rob invested in a Tow and Fert Multi 2800, allowing him to dissolve granular urea in water and apply it as a liquid foliar spray. This approach enables nutrients to be applied directly to the plant in a more readily available form, improving uptake and reducing overall fertiliser losses.

The Results

Since adopting the Tow and Fert system, Rob has reduced his urea use by approximately 40%, while maintaining pasture production. The improved efficiency of foliar-applied nitrogen has delivered immediate cost savings, with Rob noting that the reduction in fertiliser spend has almost paid for the machine in a short period of time.

Beyond the financial benefits, Rob highlights the flexibility of the Tow and Fert as a key advantage. The machine allows him to respond quickly to pasture demand and apply nutrients precisely when and where they are needed, improving overall nutrient management on the farm.

The Outcome

For Rob, the Tow and Fert has proven to be a practical and profitable investment. By lowering fertiliser inputs without compromising performance, the system has helped future-proof his business in a challenging economic and regulatory environment.

“We’ve cut our urea use by around 40%. The savings we’ve made have basically paid for the machine – it’s a no-brainer.”
— Rob Davies, Dairy Farmer, Wales