Moisture is a critical concern for Midwest farmers, and proper forage management can help conserve precious water.
By capturing and retaining rainfall on the landscape, farmers can ensure their pastures and hay fields remain resilient even during dry spells.
Maintaining good live plant cover and healthy soil with organic matter improves soil drainage and moisture retention.
Consider adjusting lawn mowing practices to encourage deeper root growth in grasses, reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
For pasture areas, implementing high-intensity, short-duration grazing can help remove excess forage, returning nutrients to the soil and keeping it cooler with reduced evaporation.
During times of early seed head production, farmers can choose from options like fast-paced grazing, controlled clipping, or converting some paddocks to hay to manage growth effectively.
A combination of these strategies can help maximize the grazing season and support growth even in challenging weather conditions.
If needed, a soil test can determine if fertilization is necessary, with options like DAP or MAP helping to spur regrowth. Inventorying current forage, predicting potential production, and planning for stored feed can ensure adequate supply during the winter months.
Successful forage management is about maximizing the grazing season, conserving moisture, and supporting healthy growth.
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Categories: Ohio, Crops, Hay & Forage