By Liliane Silva, Forage-Livestock Systems Specialist
In the southeast, the majority of livestock systems are based on perennial grasses (bermudagrass, bahiagrass, and tall fescue). Bermudagrass and bahiagrass are warm-season grasses and become dormant when temperatures decrease in Fall. For this reason, it is crucial to plan for this period aiming to decrease hay feeding due to elevated costs and to ensure the nutrient requirements of animals are met. Cool-season annuals can be used to extend the grazing season either on prepared seedbed or by overseeding warm-season perennial grass stands.
Choosing adapted forage species requires considering soil type, weather conditions, animal nutritional requirements, operation goals, costs, grazing management required and skillset, and available equipment. Cool-season forages are higher in total digestible nutrients (TDN) and crude protein (CP) than warm-season forages therefore, can support greater animal performance and reproductive development.
In order to evaluate forage species and varieties in terms of forage mass and quality, and adaptation to different locations, researchers must conduct forage variety trials. These trials involve setting up plots to conduct data collection and harvests throughout the season in multiple locations.
Before establishing your forage stand:
- Soil test should be conducted to adjust soil pH and base the P and K fertilization on recommendations for species used
- Use high-quality seed to improve establishment and reduce the chances of introduction of weeds
- Plan to split the fertilizing rate, especially with nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) to reduce losses (e.g., leaching, runoff)
- Calibrate equipment properly to avoid planting failure
- When overseeding perennial warm-season grass stands (e.g., bahiagrass and bermudagrass), remove the excessive forage mass to improve seed-soil contact.
- Consult your local Extension agent to determine the proper forage specie or mixture to be used in your operation.
