2012 Fo r a g e g u id e - BrettYoung

How to Establish a Productive Forage StandThe establishment phase is the critical first step in a productive and healthy foragestand. To maximize your success in establishing a healthy product stand, follow theagronomic guidelines below.Time of SeedingEarly spring (mid-April to early June), mid-summer (mid-July to early August) andlate fall (after freeze-up) are suitable times for seeding your forage stand. Springseeding provides the best chance for adequate moisture levels for germination.Summer seeding provides less weed competition, but may not be successful inareas with inadequate summer moisture. Fall dormant seeding can run risks of earlyspring run-off or freeze thaw patterns harming seedlings.Seedbed PreparationA firm seedbed is needed for good forage establishment. This results in proper seedto soil contact, adds control to seeding depth, as well as reducing surface drying.A firm seedbed should not leave a footprint deeper than ¼ inch.Weed ControlWeed control is important for good forage establishment. A seedbed free ofperennial weeds is especially important. Control weeds prior to seeding, as well asduring the year of establishment if possible.Quality Seed and Seed TreatmentsCertified seed ensures varietal purity, high germination and weed-free seed.Certified seed results in rapid establishment and reduced weed problems in thefuture forage crop, as well as subsequent crops. Consider a forage coating toimprove flowability and seedling health. All legumes should be inoculated to ensurenitrogen fixation.5FertilitySoil test and fertilize accordingly. Remember that the most cost effective time tofertilize a forage crop is usually at seeding. Consider the use of higher rates ofelemental sulfur or phosphorus to provide a stable nutrition base for the followingyears. Fifteen lbs of P 2O 5can be safely seed placed. Higher rates must be bandedaway from the seed row to avoid seedling damage.