By Victor Shelton
Spring is around the corner, I hope. In some areas, early February arrived with heavy snow. In others, it was mostly cold, dry and windy. Regardless of how it showed up, many were simply glad to see grass again once the white melted away — if it was green or brown didn’t matter much.
An older relative of mine used to say that if there was snow still hanging around, it was just waiting for more to come. Whether that proves true or not, March reminds us that winter rarely leaves quietly. Each season is different, and so far this one appears to be leaning drier in several areas.
As days lengthen and soil temperatures begin inching upward, cool-season forages slowly wake from dormancy. Soil temperatures in the upper 30s and 40s can initiate growth, and once we consistently approach 50 degrees, growth accelerates. But seeing green does not mean it is time to graze.
Source : osu.edu