Forage Timely Tips: November

Posted on by
  • Apply 30-50 lb nitrogen per acre to strengthen cool-season grass pastures and grass hay fields.
  • If not already done, inventory hay supplies and assess hay quality. Hay prices are increasing.
  • Using a grazing stick or rising plate meter, estimate stockpile forage available for winter grazing. 
  • Adjust animal numbers or purchase additional hay to balance forage-feed supply to livestock needs. 
  • Graze crop residues and cover crops that are 6-8 inches tall and are well anchored.  Do NOT graze closer to 4 inches. 
  • Graze winter annuals that will not overwinter such as brassicas and spring oats. 
  • Alkaloid content in tall fescue can also be high in the fall some years, but will begin decline after a hard freeze (low 20’s).
  • Talk to local NRCS conservationists about a grazing plan and cost-share opportunities.