When a good forage stand is not obtained in a pasture or hayfield, or a stand thins dues

to stress factors, weeds will invade. Weeds steal water, nutrients, sunlight and space from forage crops. Many weeds have some forage value, but often they are unpalatable, low quality, unproductive or even poisonous; otherwise, we wouldn’t consider them weeds. Good management, including providing a suitable soil pH, furnishing adequate amounts of plant nutrients and exercising appropriate grazing or cutting practices enable forage crops to be much more competitive. In many situations, timely use of herbicide to control weeds can be effective, efficient and economical. Weeds are thieves that hurt profits more than many forage-livestock producers realize. Order your copy of Livestock Quotes and Concepts here.