By Andi Anderson
Clover and other legumes play a crucial role in sustainable grassland ecosystems, enhancing soil nitrogen levels through a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria. They improve pasture quality, animal performance, and help combat tall fescue toxicosis.
Frost seeding, a technique of broadcasting clover seed in late winter, utilizes freezing and thawing cycles for soil incorporation, making it an efficient method for pasture improvement.
To optimize frost seeding, variable rate seeding (VRS) technology is being evaluated at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center. VRS adjusts seeding rates in real time, accommodating changes in field conditions or ground speed.
This approach is especially useful in pastures with uneven terrain, ensuring consistent seed distribution and improving the uniformity of clover stands.
The study involved testing a variable rate seeder on a 1,000-foot paved course at speeds of 3, 6, and 9 mph. Results showed that constant seeding rates varied significantly with speed changes, while VRS maintained consistent seeding rates regardless of speed. This demonstrates VRS’s potential to reduce seed waste and ensure uniform stands of clover, which are vital for sustainable pasture systems.
However, the high cost of VRS equipment, such as the $5,800 seeder used in the study, may deter adoption. In contrast, traditional seeders cost between $500 and $1,000. A practical solution could be for Extension offices and Soil and Water Conservation Districts to include these seeders in their rental programs, making the technology accessible to more farmers.
In conclusion, VRS technology offers significant benefits for pasture management, reducing costs and improving pasture uniformity. With more on-farm research, its economic advantages could be better documented, encouraging wider adoption in sustainable agriculture systems.
Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum
Categories: Ohio, Sustainable Agriculture