Forage Timely Tips
- Do NOT graze cool-season pastures closer than 3 to 4 inches. This will help conserve soil moisture and prevent overheating of the crowns.
- If drought conditions limit pasture growth, close off pastures and feed hay in a sacrifice area.
- Graze warm season annuals or perennials to allow cool season grasses to recover and to avoid endophyte-infected fescue.
- After the first good rain in August, seed winter annuals (such as small grains, ryegrass, crimson clover and brassicas) for late fall and early spring grazing.
- Plant alfalfa after the first good rain in August to allow sufficient size going into winter and reduce potential for sclerotinia damage.
- Consider renovation of cool-season grass pastures that have thinned.
Source: University of Kentucky Forage News, July 31, 2020