In the weeks before freeze-up, farmers have a great opportunity to increase profitability in their fields by rehabilitating weedy or saline acres. Dormant seeding perennial forages is a proven solution.
“Dormant seeding can be very successful when implemented correctly,” says Jenai Buchanan, a marginal areas specialist with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC). “And for areas suffering from excess moisture each spring, the fall months could be your one opportunity to take action.”
Marginal acres make up a significant portion of production land on the Canadian prairies. DUC sustainable agriculture research scientist Sam Robinson, in collaboration with the Prairie Precision Sustainability Network (PPSN), estimates 13 acres in every quarter section. That’s 7.3 million acres of marginal farmland in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta which remain unproductive despite fertilizer, crop protection products and careful management. To listen to Sam’s full interview on our podcast, click here.
Timing is critical when planting perennial forages in the fall. Dormant seeding must be done when the soil temperature is below 5 degrees Celsius. Otherwise, a temperature spike from either warm days or early snow insulating the ground can lead to premature germination and extensive winterkill.
“Seed heavy and use a diverse mix,” advises Buchanan. “A late spring frost can impact establishment, so seed up to 30 percent heavier to account for potential losses. We also find a seed blend with several grasses and legumes improves the success rate.”
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