In order for a seed to germinate, it must absorb many times its weight in water. Furthermore, the longer it takes for the needed water to be absorbed, the longer the germinating seed, and subsequently the young seedling, will be vulnerable to unfavorable weather conditions. Good seed-soil contact favors water uptake by seeds. Thus, practices such as drilling seed (especially using a drill with press wheels), use of a cultipacker when seed is broadcast on a prepared seedbed or even using livestock to “trample in” seed (without convering them too deeply favor stand establishment). Purchase Forage-Livestock Quotes and Concepts books for $5 each by contacting ukforageextension@uky.edu.