The benefits of alfalfa as a feedstuff, soil enhancer, and nitrogen contributor are well known here on Earth. Someday, some of those same benefits may be leveraged on Mars
Simply put, a weed is a plant that is growing in an unwanted area and competing with desirable species. Although corn is usually planted intentionally, it can act like a weed when it grows
While optimists and pessimists argue about whether the glass is half empty or half full, both sides can agree that there is no water in the cup during a drought
Drought conditions persist across the country, and farmers are feeling the heat. As limited rainfall threatens to thwart grain fill in corn, it might be necessary to harvest some fields as a forage
The effects of drought on a grazing system are like a chain reaction. First, dry weather hinders plant growth and resiliency, which reduces forage yield and quality
As the days get shorter and the end of summer draws near, some producers may be gearing up to seed new perennial forage stands. That said, seeding method, timing, and weed control will contribute to s
Flipping the calendar from July to August is a reminder that fall is fast approaching. Instead of transitioning to feeding hay when the seasons change, stockpile and strip-graze forage to capitalize on
Alfalfa is instrumental to livestock production. Its high levels of fiber digestibility and crude protein make it an important component to an animal’s diet — from beef cattle to lactating
Summer weather is ideal for many activities, such as camping, boating, and having a barbeque; however, hot and dry conditions are not ideal for cool-season grass growth
Cover crops can do more than reduce soil erosion and provide ground cover. They can also be an economical solution for prevented planting acres and a valuable forage source
Photo: Robert WebsterFew pests are more aptly named than the blister beetle. These insects have cantharidin in their blood — a toxic chemical that can cause painful, fluid-filled blisters upon skin
Like any crop, corn for silage doesn’t always grow to realize its full production potential. Whether wet conditions delay planting or drought weaken yields, producers need a backup plan in case corn
When we talk about clovers for haying or grazing, species such as red clover, white clover, ladino clover, alsike clover, crimson clover, and others come to the immediate forefront
There are a lot of balls in the air when it comes to managing forage for stand longevity. Plant diseases, weed pressure, and weather are inevitable interferences, but cutting height, which also impact
Prussic acid poisoning is usually a concern in the fall when animals graze after a frost. However, this type of toxicity can also develop in forages during a drought
