A great challenge in cattle operations is needing forage…fast. In Bermudagrass based systems, the lack of growth between when Bermuda growth slows and cereal rye or ryegrass growth begins is an incredible challenge. A similar issue is found in fescue based systems- fall growth of fescue slows or nearly stops once the day length shortens and…

The best time of day to cut hay is a balancing act between maximizing the nutritional quality and store-ability of the bales. During the day, the plant undergoes the process of photosynthesis, or production of carbohydrates- what we know better as ‘sugars’. However, these sugars are produced at a rate faster than the rate at which they are used,…

Mixtures bring yield stability to a forage field as each species and variety has its own strengths and weaknesses.  These factors include: soil adaption, climate adaptation, disease resistance, harvest timing, yield distribution over the seasons, nutrient needs and contributions to soil health, and of course nutrition and fiber for the livestock…

Adaptation to climate and soil type are not the only considerations when it comes to selecting a cool-season perennial. Farm constraints, management style, and long term goals should all be part of the decision. Take a minute to evaluate where your forage system is now and where you want it to be. From there, you can work towards selecting the…