By Bethany Johnston
Drought conditions and unexpected events such as wildfire can significantly reduce available pasture for livestock. Irrigated annual forages provide a practical and flexible solution to maintain feed supplies and extend grazing seasons. By carefully selecting forage types, planting at the right time, and managing grazing effectively, producers can optimize both yield and forage quality.
Annual forages are typically divided into cool-season and warm-season species. Each type has specific planting windows, growth patterns, and management strategies. Understanding how and when to use these crops is essential for maximizing productivity under irrigated conditions.
Cool-Season Annual Forages
Cool-season annuals are an excellent option for early spring or fall grazing. Common species include oats, spring triticale, spring barley, field peas, and annual ryegrass. These crops perform best in cooler temperatures and can be seeded in two primary windows:
- Spring planting: Mid-March to mid-April (soil temperatures around 43–45°F)
- Late summer planting: August through early September for fall forage production.
Due to the warm winter in Nebraska this year, soil temperatures have already reached the required threshold.
Source : unl.edu