Fall Field Work

Now that fall has arrived, it is time to focus on implementing pasture management practices that will improve your stand for next year. This includes fertilizing, aerating, rotational grazing, herbicide applications, and chain harrowing.

With mild seasonal temperatures and adequate soil moisture, aerating is an effective way to encourage root growth by reducing compaction. Running the aerator prior to field applications, such as fertilizer or compost, will help prevent run-off on hillsides and will supply the amendments directly to the root zone.

Fertilizing based on your soil test results will provide nutrients essential to plant growth. The most effective time to fertilize is between mid-October and the end of November. Applying nitrogen after a killing frost will encourage root growth and thickening of the sod without causing the unwanted top growth, lushness, and weed growth seen with spring applications. It is important to note that prior to a killing frost, a nitrogen application will strengthen the undesirable warm season grasses such as nimblewill and foxtail.

After a hot, dry summer with limited growth, autumn has brought a flush of the cool season grasses. Resting fields for as little as two weeks during a growing season can help the field recover from grazing pressure. Continue mowing through the fall in order to keep fields around 8 to 10 inches in length.

As the days get shorter, take the time to walk through your fields and make note of any winter annuals present. This could include weeds such as deadnettle, chickweed, and henbit. These can be sprayed until the end of November, weather permitting. Clearing these weeds early will prevent them from becoming too heavy over the winter and provide more room for the desirable grasses to fill in.

Chain harrowing is a common field management practice, but the timing is critical. Harrowing can loosen dead grass, break up manure piles, and repair hoof damage. In order to avoid spreading weed seed, restrict harrowing to the winter and spring months. This is especially important for fields that are heavy in nimblewill and foxtail. Running a chain harrow before and after broadcasting seed will improve germination rates.

Autumn is a great time to take inventory, make improvements, and plan for next year.

Utilizing seasonal pasture management strategies now will help ensure your pastures remain productive for years to come.

Seasonal Tip:

Lime can be applied any time the trucks can get into the field. Only apply lime according to soil test results.