As early spring arrives, beef cattle will graze on lush pastures that may lack essential minerals and vitamins necessary for optimal health and productivity. Implementing a strategic supplementation program using CRYSTALYX^® low-moisture blocks can effectively address these nutritional gaps. 

Understanding early-spring nutritional challenges 

In early spring, rapidly growing grasses often provide plenty of energy and protein but may be deficient in crucial minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium, plus key trace minerals like copper, zinc and selenium. These deficiencies can lead to lower performance and also to health issues like grass tetany, particularly in older, lactating cows. High moisture content in spring forages can also reduce mineral concentrations, adding more risk for potential deficiencies. 

Selecting the appropriate CRYSTALYX product 

Choosing the right CRYSTALYX formulation depends on specific herd requirements and forage conditions. For early spring, when grass tetany is a concern, selecting a supplement with adequate magnesium like the CRYSTALYX^® SuperMAG™  or CRYSTALYX^® Blueprint^® 17 Mag levels are a great insurance policy. In other scenarios, products like CRYSTALYX^® Blueprint^® 6% Phos or CRYSTALYX^® Mineral-lyx^® are designed to provide a balanced mix of minerals and vitamins to support cattle health during this period.  

Implementing CRYSTALYX in your nutrition program 

To effectively incorporate CRYSTALYX trace mineral supplements: 

1. Assess forage quality: Evaluate the mineral content of your available forage to determine the specific supplementation needs of your herd. 
2. Select the appropriate product: Choose a CRYSTALYX product that aligns with your herd’s nutritional requirements and complements your forage base. 
3. Monitor consumption: Regularly observe intake levels to ensure that cattle are consuming the supplements as intended and adjust placement or quantity as necessary. 
4. Complementary practices: Continue to provide free-choice salt and ensure constant access to clean, fresh water to support overall health and supplement efficacy.

Advantages of CRYSTALYX low-moisture blocks

CRYSTALYX low-moisture blocks offer a palatable and consistent method for delivering essential nutrients to grazing cattle. Key benefits include: 

• Controlled intake: The hardness of the block ensures that cattle consume the supplement through licking, preventing overconsumption and promoting uniform nutrient intake across the herd.  

• Weather resistance: Unlike loose mineral supplements that can be affected by wind and rain, CRYSTALYX blocks remain stable in various weather conditions, ensuring continuous availability without significant waste.  

• Ease of use: CRYSTALYX blocks require minimal labor and equipment. Producers can place the blocks in strategic locations to encourage optimal grazing patterns and supplement intake.  

• Fly control options: Most products in the CRYSTALYX mineral family have a fly control option available. It’s important to start implementing a fly control product early to stay ahead.  

 By incorporating CRYSTALYX low-moisture blocks into your spring management plan, you can effectively address potential mineral and vitamin deficiencies, supporting the health and productivity of your beef cattle during this critical period.