News & Tips

Grass masters

There are more acres in pasture and hay than in any other crop in Tennessee, and these are generally the most under-managed crops in agriculture. But it doesn't have to be that way. Something as relatively inexpensive as regular soil-testing, for example, can create dramatic returns.

Cattlemen can continue to improve their efficiency through pasture management practices such as fall fertilization, soil-testing, and spraying. In addition, stockpiling fescue is a sound economic option for cattlemen in the Southeast where growing conditions support the practice. Limiting weed competition also makes for better nutrition because many pasture weeds are either toxic to cattle or just provide no nutritional value at all. Not only will a pasture with a good stand of fescue extend the grazing season, but it also provides a much better grade of food for cattle.