Pasture and Forage Minute

Grazing winter annuals such rye, winter wheat, or triticale commonly begins in April. All three of these forages can be very high in quality and reduce the need for feeding expensive hay while allowing additional time for spring growth of our perennial summer pastures. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Alfalfa fields usually are fully productive for at least 4 or 5 years after seeding before fields need converted to another crop. So, what should producers do when their alfalfa stands fall below 10 plants per square foot or the annual forage yields drop off below half? Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Forage Agronomist.

Are you interested in learning more about annual forage systems? Cattle and Coffee is an upcoming early morning webinar series about this very topic. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

Now is the time to control winter annual weeds in alfalfa. Thinned alfalfa stands combined with open soil and adequate moisture can result in weed pressure. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Forage Agronomist.

Drought damage to a pasture is easy to notice while moisture is lacking, however, the harm done can last, even when rain returns. What can you do to aid in recovery? Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Producers face a variety of challenges when managing livestock herds and the forage crops grown to feed them. In many ways, technology can help streamline management improving operation efficiency and productivity. An important and increasingly popular example of this technology is drones. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.

Cereal grains like wheat can be grown for dual purpose production in central and southern plains states. Usually, wheat can be grazed without reducing grain yields when animals are removed from fields just prior to the jointing growth stage when immature wheat heads move up the stems if nutrients and water are not limited. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Forage Agronomist.

There are many producers looking at looking at ways to grow more forage for hay or pasture. Double cropping annual forages on irrigated cropland can be an option. With timely and adequate moisture, this can also be successful dryland as well. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

Fresh spring growth is a welcome site for producers looking for animal forage. However, lush spring growth may be the perfect condition for a case of grass tetany. While turn out may be a ways off, mitigating this risk starts now.Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Were you expecting more from last year’s alfalfa yields? Did your plants get enough time to winterize in the fall? Do you have concerns about stand winter kill? Evaluating your alfalfa stand in the spring is key to planning management and setting expectations for this year. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.