Checking Alfalfa For Winter Injury

March 10, 2017

Alfalfa had started to green up and grow in many areas prior to this cold spell. When growth begins again, stands need to be evaluated soon.

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fertilizer applicator in the field
Nebraska research shows that most NE growers can reduce their normal nitrogen rate in corn following alfalfa by applying the proper N credit. (Photo by Laura Thompson)

Cutting Costs Without Hurting Yields? Check Fertilizer N Rates in Corn after Alfalfa

February 22, 2017

With tight crop margins for the 2017 growing season, many farmers are looking for ways to cut input costs without hurting yields. One way to do this is by giving the appropriate nitrogen credit when calculating how much N to apply to corn grown after a prior alfalfa crop.

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Dormant Spraying Alfalfa Weeds

February 17, 2017
Starting your weed control in dormant alfalfa can help ensure that weeds don't lower yields, reduce quality and slow hay drydown in that first cutting.

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Be Alert to Risk of Alfalfa Winter Injury

February 17, 2017
WIth warm temperatures and intermittent early growth, alfalfa may be using up vital reserves needed for its regular growing season. Growers are urged to check their fields and make any necessary adjustments early.

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High Quality Hay Still Brings Top Dollar

November 11, 2016
If you're sitting on some high-quality hay and planning to feed your livestock, consider whether the market adage to "Sell high, buy low" might offer some sage advise for the hay market too.

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Weed Control Options in Seedling Alfalfa

September 21, 2016

Late summer plantings of alfalfa tend to have fewer weeds than spring plantings, but this year, fall weeds may be a problem in some fields.

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How Disc Mowers Can Damage Grass in Grass-Alfalfa Mixes

September 14, 2016

I like mixing alfalfa with grasses like orchardgrass, fescue, and festulolium and I like using a disc mower, but it can be complicated.

Compared to sickle bar mowers, disc mowers cut faster, require less maintenance, and rarely plug.  They can cut the crop shorter and keep going even if they occasionally scalp the surface.  And that’s the problem.

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Guidelines for Alfalfa Harvest During The Winterizing Period

September 14, 2016
Hoping to get a final cut of alfalfa during the fall winterization period? Check out these recommendations for increasing the chance your alfalfa survives the winter and grows well next spring

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