Adding Grass to Thinning Alfalfa Offers a Win-Win
March 15, 2018
Thin alfalfa stands can be rejuvenated by interseeding grasses and converting the field to pasture or haying as a grass-alfalfa mixture. The diversity offers a win for both the land and the livestock.
Checking Alfalfa For Winter Injury
March 15, 2018
Bitter cold spells and desiccating winds in early winter may have endangered alfalfa stands. Evaluate alfalfa stands soon to determine their viability and the potential need for replanting or rotating to another crop.
Legumes Can Benefit Your Pasture Mix
March 2, 2018
Five years of grazing research in eastern Nebraska showed that brome/legume pastures produced almost four-tenths of a pound higher average daily gain on yearlings than did straight brome pastures fertilized with 50 lbs of nitrogen. Adding legumes to your pasture mix may be just the boost your production system needs.
Dormant Spraying for Alfalfa Weeds
March 2, 2018
With temperatures beginning to warm up, now is a good time to manage weeds such as field pennycress, downy brome, mustards, cheatgrass, and shepherd's purse in dormant alfalfa without risking plant injury.
Recommendations for Harvesting Alfalfa in October
October 3, 2017
Alfalfa's growing season is usually over by mid-October, but this year many fields received late season rain that's contributing to a substantial, high quality alfalfa crop. Here are some recommendations for a successful harvest when drying times are apt to be slow.
How Freezes Affect Forages
October 3, 2017
Frost can causes important changes in plant metabolism and composition, making forages a hazard to cattle for several days after a freeze.
Safely Harvesting Alfalfa During the Winterizing Period
September 8, 2017
A tempting amount of alfalfa growth may be available for harvest in early fall. A careful harvest will help assure it's also available next year.
Interseeding Grass in Thinning Alfalfa
August 10, 2017
Interseeding grass into existing alfalfa takes timely haying and planting, but both land and livestock will improve with your efforts. Check out these tips for adding grasses in alfalfa.