Alfalfa planted in August establishes well when moisture is available. Be sure to plant early enough so alfalfa has 6 to 8 weeks between emergence and freeze back to develop good cold tolerance. That means that if you are in …
When to Harvest Prairie Hay
Different livestock have different nutritional requirements. Dry, mature cows need 7 to 8 percent protein and 50 to 54 percent TDN in their diet. In contrast, two-year-old heifers that are nursing calves need more than 10 percent protein and 62 …
Testing Forages for Quality
Are all forages alike? Of course not, but how different are they?
This is hard to tell just by smelling, touching, and looking at the forage. Its hard to see the variation of the forage quality because it is based …
Diagnosing the Cause of Yellow Alfalfa
Recently, Nebraska extension offices have been receiving yellowish alfalfa from growers fields. When agents and growers discussed the growing conditions and cultural practices between each case, the common factors were discovered within the field.
Common Factors
- The alfalfa was planted
Effective Controls for Red Cedars in Pastures
The best way to prevent eastern red cedar trees from overpopulating pastures is by cutting them down or applying herbicides.
The cedars can compete with grasses for water and nutrients, light, reduce forage production, and interfere with cattle handling. …