Spring Pasture Management

By Stefani Garbacik

It may not be the official start of spring yet but it’s just around the corner. Let’s hope the actual spring weather is on the way too!! It’s time to start thinking about your spring pasture management…what you do now can ensure a productive growing cycle.

As far as new fields go, the basic and most important question is what will you grow? Bermudagrass, fescue, annuals? Seeded or sprigged? If going with bermudagrass (for example), a hybrid version would need to be sprigged—usually between mid Feb and mid March. Of course, weather conditions can change this time frame so be sure to check with your sprig supplier! Seeded varieties may be more appropriate for smaller fields or if you need more flexible planting dates.

Soil samples are a key player in optimizing the growth of your forages. Soil fertility changes over time, so every 2-3 years you should plan to take a sample. The results will give you lime and fertilization recommendations specific to your soil, on your land, with the specified crop. Stop by the Extension office to pick up a soil test kit and instructions.

Weed control is important regardless of the season. Allowing extensive weed growth chokes out your planned forage crop, and can prevent significant yields. Treating weeds when they’re immature will provide more effective control and may save you some money—smaller plants mean smaller amounts of herbicide necessary. You may see things like pigweed, dogfennel, horsenettle, goosegrass and vaseygrass in your fields…finding the correct herbicide can be done by talking to experienced farmers or consulting the Agricultural Chemicals Manual. Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions for application and restrictions.

Source:ncsu.edu