The timing of fertilizer application for pastures depends on the type of grass and the specific needs of the pasture. It is recommended to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient requirements of your pasture.
Key Facts
- Timing of fertilizer application: The timing of fertilizer application for pastures depends on the type of grass and the specific needs of the pasture. It is recommended to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient requirements of your pasture.
- Nitrogen application: Strategic applications of nitrogen can be beneficial for pure grass hay and pasture stands. Moderate amounts of nitrogen (30-50 pounds N/Acre) can be applied in June through early July after the first cutting or after the spring flush and reproductive stages of the cool-season grasses are over in pastures.
- Split applications: Split applications of fertilizers are generally recommended to maximize yields. For cool-season grass pastures, research shows that split applications of nitrogen generally maximize yields when applied in the late summer, early spring, and occasionally in the late spring. Most grass pastures only require late summer applications because extra nitrogen in the spring often produces more growth than livestock can consume.
- Grass hayfields: For grass hayfields, it is best to apply nitrogen when plants are in an active growth phase and will uptake the most nitrogen. Timely application, along with ample precipitation and/or soil moisture, provides plants the best chance to respond. A split application can maximize overall forage production.
- Interseeding legumes: One of the best management practices to improve nitrogen levels in pastures is to interseed legumes. Legumes, like red and ladino white clovers, have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air and convert it into a mineral form usable by plants. This can economically increase production of grass pastures.
Nitrogen Application for Pastures
Strategic applications of nitrogen can be beneficial for pure grass hay and pasture stands. Moderate amounts of nitrogen (30-50 pounds N/Acre) can be applied in June through early July after the first cutting or after the spring flush and reproductive stages of the cool-season grasses are over in pastures.
Split Applications of Fertilizers
Split applications of fertilizers are generally recommended to maximize yields. For cool-season grass pastures, research shows that split applications of nitrogen generally maximize yields when applied in the late summer, early spring, and occasionally in the late spring. Most grass pastures only require late summer applications because extra nitrogen in the spring often produces more growth than livestock can consume.
Fertilizer Application for Grass Hayfields
For grass hayfields, it is best to apply nitrogen when plants are in an active growth phase and will uptake the most nitrogen. Timely application, along with ample precipitation and/or soil moisture, provides plants the best chance to respond. A split application can maximize overall forage production.
Interseeding Legumes to Improve Nitrogen Levels
One of the best management practices to improve nitrogen levels in pastures is to interseed legumes. Legumes, like red and ladino white clovers, have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air and convert it into a mineral form usable by plants. This can economically increase production of grass pastures.
Sources:
- Fertilizing Hay and Pastures | Agronomic Crops Network
https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/16-2021/fertilizing-hay-and-pastures
- Timing Fertilizer and Pasture Yields | Master Grazer
https://grazer.ca.uky.edu/content/timing-fertilizer-and-pasture-yields
- Fertilizing Cattle Pastures In The Spring | Beef Magazine
https://www.beefmagazine.com/pasture/fertilizing-pastures-in-the-spring
FAQs
When is the best time to fertilize pastures?
The best time to fertilize pastures depends on the type of grass and the specific needs of the pasture. However, a general rule of thumb is to fertilize in the late summer or early spring. This allows the nutrients to be available to the plants during their peak growing season.
How often should I fertilize my pasture?
The frequency of fertilization will depend on the type of grass, the soil conditions, and the desired level of productivity. However, most pastures will benefit from being fertilized at least once a year.
What type of fertilizer should I use on my pasture?
The type of fertilizer you use will depend on the nutrient needs of your pasture. A soil test can help you determine which nutrients are deficient and need to be supplemented.
How much fertilizer should I apply to my pasture?
The amount of fertilizer you apply will depend on the type of fertilizer, the nutrient needs of your pasture, and the desired level of productivity. It is important to follow the recommendations on the fertilizer label to avoid over-application.
What are the benefits of fertilizing my pasture?
Fertilizing your pasture can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Increased forage production
- Improved forage quality
- Reduced weed pressure
- Improved soil health
What are the risks of over-fertilizing my pasture?
Over-fertilizing your pasture can lead to a number of problems, including:
- Nutrient runoff, which can pollute waterways
- Reduced forage quality
- Increased weed pressure
- Soil compaction
How can I tell if my pasture needs to be fertilized?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your pasture needs to be fertilized, including:
- Yellowing or stunted growth of the grass
- Bare patches in the pasture
- An increase in weeds
- Poor animal performance
How can I get my soil tested?
You can get your soil tested by contacting your local extension office or a private soil testing laboratory.