Planting

Many forage growers have recently had “sticker shock” at their ag-supplier’s counter. The best varieties are considerably more expensive than what most growers have grown accustomed to paying. Consequently, some forage growers have been tempted to either use inferior varieties or substantially reduce seeding rates in the superior varieties to save on seed costs during establishment. But, there is a difference between cutting costs and cutting corners.

Seventeen is not only the number of years Tom Cotter has experimented with cover crops on his southern Minnesota farm; it’s also the number of species he uses in his mix.

Picture this: a tall, green field of corn growing like glory but struggling with what looks like a serious weed problem. Hang on a minute – those aren’t weeds, they’re alfalfa seedlings. Come again?

Heavy clay and variable to wet soils present a conundrum – while they often need the closest management, they are at the same time the most challenging to manage.

I have talked with several farmers over the years that have tried frost seeding to renovate pastures, improve their forage stand or alter the species mix in their hay and pasture fields.

There is something special about legumes that set them apart from other forages.

Legumes have the ability to sustain beneficial relationships with soil bacteria.