Forage Crops

Making Spring No-Tillage Forage Seedings Into Grain Crop Residues

Spring no-tillage seeding of forages into corn and soybean stubble is now being practiced on many Ohio farms. This allows early planting, which in turn permits emerging forage seedlings to compete more effectively with germinating annual weeds. Other advantages include seeding on a firm seedbed and reduced labor requirements. Likewise, users gain the weed and pest control provided by the previous crop rotation and residue. An important requirement for success is pre-planning so there are no damaging herbicide residues from the previous crop to jeopardize forage establishment. MORE

Spring Seeding Alfalfa Alone

Traditionally alfalfa in Ohio has been spring seeded with oats or broadcast in early spring into winter wheat. Alfalfa vigor and plant survival are often reduced when seedings are made into the small grains. This is especially true with today's higher yielding wheat and oats varieties. This occurs because of severe competition between the alfalfa and small grain for light, moisture, and soil nutrients. Also, the plant competition increases the incidence of alfalfa seedling diseases. The small grain is neither a nurse nor a companion, but a significant competitor to the establishment of alfalfa.  MORE