Important Reminders for September
- Select fields for stockpiling fescue for fall and winter grazing. Apply nitrogen in early to mid-August and remember to mow or graze forage to three to four inches of height prior to nitrogen application.
- Plan ahead for any fall seedings. Plan details such as soil testing, no till or conventional till, fertilizing requirements and removing animals from the field to allow time for establishment.
- Follow up with any soil test results to decide on fertilizer needed for the fall. To take a soil test, contact your local county extension agent. Most fields should be sampled every three to four years and any high-value crops should be sampled annually.
- Closely monitor livestock and do NOT overgraze. Pasture plants accumulate energy reserves in the fall that help them overwinter and regrow in the spring.
- Feed hay to allow pastures to stockpile for winter grazing.
- Rest native warm-season grass fields until after frost for better winter survival.
