Late Winter and Early Spring Reminders
- Refine plans for pasture use for the upcoming grazing season; consider fencing, seeding, fertilization, herbicide applications, water and shade availability.
- Frost seeding of clovers should be performed between February 1 and March 1.
- Nitrogen fertilizer should be applied in late February to promote early grass growth.
- Before applying nitrogen, soil test pastures and use results for application of fertilizer and lime.
- Renovate high traffic areas and bare areas to reduce erosion.
- Purchase seed, inoculant, and fertilizer for upcoming season.
- Check equipment and make repairs where needed.
- During wet periods, consider moving livestock to a barn or sacrifice lot to protect pastures.
- Continually move feeding area to reduce mud, erosion, compaction, and damage to forages.
- Do not graze pastures before cool-season forages reach approximately 6 inches to allow for adequate growth and maximum forage production for the remainder of the grazing season.
- Provide animals with easy access to complete mineral feeders at all times. Supply a mineral high in magnesium (a high “Mag” mineral) to prevent grass tetany in the early spring.