By Blake Jackson
Frost-seeding legumes into existing pastures can significantly benefit livestock producers, according to Terry Halleran, a University of Missouri Extension field specialist in agronomy. This low-cost method involves broadcasting legume seeds onto frozen ground.
Legumes offer numerous advantages, including increased pasture diversity, improved soil health, and reduced reliance on nitrogen fertilizers. They also mitigate the negative effects of fescue toxicity and enhance cattle weight gain. By extending the growing season, legumes help alleviate summer slump issues.
"Traditionally, we recommend frost-seeding legumes around February in southwestern Missouri for optimal seed-to-soil contact," says Halleran. "The freeze-thaw cycle and cattle hoof action aid in seed incorporation. However, excessive thatch can hinder seed-to-soil contact, so close mowing or grazing before frost-seeding is crucial."
The 2024 drought has underscored the critical role of legumes in overgrazed pastures. Their deep root systems provide resilience in drought-prone areas and enhance soil fertility and nitrogen fixation following dry periods. Poor soil fertility weakens desirable plants, creating opportunities for weeds to thrive.
Proper weed control is essential. "A healthy, dense pasture is the best weed control," says Halleran. "Unwanted weeds reduce profitability for cattle producers."
Halleran offers these weed control tips:
- Limit fescue, especially Kentucky 31, to 50-60% of the pasture.
- Ensure seed purity.
- Include 25-30% cool season grasses like orchardgrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
- Incorporate 20-25% legumes such as red clover, white clover, and lespedeza. Avoid frost-seeding alfalfa, bird's-foot trefoil, and other unsuitable species.
- Include 15-20% warm season grasses like crabgrass, Bermuda grass, and native varieties.
Healthy pastures require proper management, including soil testing and strategic fertilization. Drought has depleted many pastures of nutrients, particularly lime and phosphorus, leading to increased weed pressure. Lime application is crucial in Ozark soils to enhance plant diversity and clover growth.
"Fertilizer takes time to become effective, especially phosphorus and potassium," notes Halleran. "Apply four to six months before the growing season and avoid applying nitrogen in the first spring after introducing legumes."
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Missouri, Crops