By Andi Anderson
Grazing cattle may seem simple, but it requires careful planning. A key factor in successful grazing is understanding the different stages of forage growth and how each affects cattle health and performance.
Forage grows in three stages:
- Stage One occurs right after grazing or early in the season. Plants rely on energy stored in their roots to begin regrowth. During this phase, grazing should be avoided to allow recovery.
- Stage Two is the ideal time for grazing. The plant has developed enough leaves to carry out photosynthesis, generating energy without using root reserves. Forage is most nutritious and digestible in this stage, promoting better cattle intake and performance.
- Stage Three is when plants enter reproduction. They begin forming seeds, and their quality drops. Fiber levels increase, protein levels decrease, and cattle struggle to digest and consume enough forage, reducing their performance.
If forage is grazed too early or is too short (stage one), cattle cannot gather enough feed with their tongues and may not meet energy needs. Grazing too late (stage three) results in poor-quality feed, slowing digestion and reducing energy intake.
Effective grazing also improves plant resilience. Grazing too soon can stress plants and deplete root energy reserves, making them weak and less productive. Over time, this may lead to lower-quality pastures and vulnerability to weather stress.
To build strong forage stands, allow longer rest periods between grazing and avoid overgrazing. Resilient pastures offer many benefits:
- More usable forage
- Extra feed for harsh seasons
- Efficient pasture use
- Better manure and urine spread
Introducing short grazing periods and long rest periods—often through rotational grazing—helps improve both cattle health and pasture productivity. With the right management, grazing can support long-term success and profitability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-minchen-liang-eyeem
Categories: Ohio, Sustainable Agriculture