April 20, 2007

Less than three weeks ago, many of us were marveling at all the growth already on the alfalfa. Some were even speculating that some hay might be cut in April. Pastures, too, were growing nicely and some cows already were out grazing.

And then it froze. And froze again even harder. Most alfalfa was laid flat. Sensitive grasses like orchardgrass froze almost clear to the ground and other grasses were stopped dead in their tracks.

With warmer temperatures this week, however, pastures are beginning to recover and don't look too bad. Many of them may even remain a little ahead of normal, but be careful not to push them too hard as grazing starts. Plant appearance may be somewhat deceiving. Some of that green you still see on plants is not as functional at supporting growth was it was before the freeze in early April. Grazing earlier than normal, but lightly, will make use of some of the damaged tissue before it degrades without compromising future production.

Following this past week of warmer weather, alfalfa is starting to develop new shoots. In some fields, plants that looked doomed have actually greened up and begun growing again. Recovery is underway, but this re-greenup is happening quite a bit later than when alfalfa usually begins spring growth. Watch growth closely so you don't take that first hay cutting too early.

Bruce Anderson
Extension Forage Specialist