Pasture and Forage Minute

Fertilizing cool-season grass pastures or hayfields is something producers do each year while accounting for forage needs, moisture, the value of the forage, and fertilizer costs. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

As temperatures begin to rise, don’t’ forget to take a bit of time to assess alfalfa stand health going into this year’s growing season. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Inter-seeding cool-season perennial grasses into older alfalfa stands has been a good option to increase the productivity of that field. If planning a new alfalfa seeding this year, using a grass and alfalfa mixture can also have some advantages. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

As spring approaches, it is a good idea to start thinking about the insects that will be emerging and subsequently feeding on alfalfa, particularly alfalfa weevil. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.

Farming and ranching occupations are among the most stressful jobs in America, based on factors that affect a producer’s financial, physical, and mental health. Shannon Sand, Nebraska Ag Economics Extension Educator.

Alfalfa can be successfully seeded in the Spring or Fall depending on field weed pressure; moisture conditions; and timing. Once established, perennial alfalfa plants can complete well with weeds. Todd Whitney, Nebraska Extension Forage Agronomist.

There have been several wildfires this spring that have affected range and pasturelands across Nebraska and that threat will continue until we have new, green grass growth later this spring. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

The time for spring planting alfalfa is just around the corner and two traits often confused, are fall dormancy and winter survival. Let’s look at fall dormancy today. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

While we are still just in late winter, it is never too early to start thinking about the coming spring and summer’s grazing and forage plans. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

The time for spring planting alfalfa is just around the corner, and selecting the right seed is crucial. Two traits we should take extra time to consider are fall dormancy and winter survival. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.