Ask An Expert
What should I be looking for to help my pastures recover?
Severe lack of moisture and record-setting heat in many parts of the country weakened plants, challenged weed control efforts and amplified plant stress from grazing. The result has been thinner stands of grass that will have a harder time competing with weeds.
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What is the economic threshold for weed density?
To control weeds or not to control weeds, that is the question. The answer to this question will require some effort on the part of the pasture manager. The first task should be to scout each pasture because they are all different due to weed type, past management, degree of wetness, species of weeds, etc.
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Will feeding legume hay help negate bad effects of fescue grass?
Most of the literature says that clover planted in fescue forage will help to negate the bad effects of the fescue grass. Will feeding legume hay such as alfalfa have the same positive benefit?
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What to plant in drought damaged pastures in central Texas?
Few seeded varieties are appropriate for hay production if “production” is the goal. One exception could be Cheyenne II, which has a higher production capability.
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How do I feed efficiently in a drought?
I raise registered longhorns with 50 mature cows in multiple pastures with specific bulls. Have never fed alfalfa. Given drought in central Texas my grass hay bales are getting low. Have 20 bales of alfalfa (4x4x8) that I would rate as excellent. How do I feed efficiently? How often do I feed? How much should each mature cow receive? I supplement a liquid feed, free choice as well. Forage on our ranch is minimal with no rain in the summer and fall. Your response is greatly appreciated.
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What are the benefits of dormant pasture weed control?
As we leave 2011 and begin making business and grazing plans for 2012, we must plan around what happened to our pastures this last year. As I drive through much of the southern half of Texas, the effects of record heat and drought most of the year are evident.
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What is the best approach for assessing pasture condition?
The details differ from region to region and even pasture to pasture, but the first step for producers is to scout their pastures this fall. Take stock of which forage species and which weeds are present and their relative populations.
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What pasture management steps can I take now to maximize forage production this season?
“The first step in improving grass production is assessing current pasture condition,” he says. Start by determining the level of ‘decreaser’ grass species, such as green needlegrass, bluebunch wheatgrass and little bluestem.
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