Estimation of Alfalfa NDF Using PEAQ with a Simplified Staging Scale Step 1: Choose a representative 2-square-foot area in the field. Step 2: Determine the most mature stem in the 2-square-foot sampling area using the criteria shown in the table at right. Step 3: Measure the length of the tallest stem in the 2-square-foot area. Measure it from […]
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Getting Low Potassium in Forages by Dan Undersander and Keith Kelling, University of Wisconsin Hypocalcemia results from a deficiency in plasma Calcium at the onset of lactation in dairy cows, and is the main cause of several severe metabolic disorders. Three weeks prior to calving, it is desirable to have a moderately anionic diet, to avoid milk fever and […]
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Considerations When Applying Manure to Alfalfa by K.A. Kelling and M.A. Schmitt1 Manure application to alfalfa is a management option that is increasingly being considered by livestock producers. Increased regulatory pressure due to nutrient management planning, and concerns with ground and surface water pollution are prompting producers to look at alternative crops for manure applications. While corn may […]
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Identifying and Managing Soil Compaction in Field Crop Production by Richard Wolkowski Division of Cooperative Extension of the University of Wisconsin Causes of Soil Compaction The need to conduct field operations in a timely and efficient manner has renewed concerns regarding the “productivity robbing” effects of soil compaction. Today’s farmer is managing greater numbers acres with […]
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Late Summer Alfalfa Seeding by Dr. Dan Undersander, University of Wisconsin Late summer seeding is an excellent way to establish stands and is actually the preferred time of year to seed in many regions. But your decision to late summer seed should be based on weather conditions (temperature), available soil moisture, and your projected forage needs (importance of […]
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Pure Live Seed by Dan Undersander We have paid little attention to Pure Live Seed (PLS) in the Midwest because we have generally had high quality seed (greater than 90% germ and 98% purity). But the short forage seed supply has caused some low quality seed to come on the market. To avoid being caught paying […]
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Frost Damage to Alfalfa by Dan Undersander The cold temperatures in early spring can cause some frost damage to alfalfa. Following are recommendations for evaluating damage and taking action. New seedings: Damage to new seedings has been minimal due to their excellent frost tolerance. To determine if damage has occurred examine plants – they will first […]
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Effect of Wheel Traffic on Alfalfa Yield by Dan Undersander1 In response to farmer concerns about the effect of wheel traffic on alfalfa yields, we began a study to look at these effects. Studies were established at the UW Arlington Research Station and ABI Research Station (Napier, IA) during the spring of 2000. In a second […]
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Alfalfa Cutting Height to Maximize Forage Yield and Quality by Robert W. Wiersma – Marshfield Agricultural Research Station and Ron Wiederholt – UWEX Clark County Extension University of Wisconsin Current recommendations regarding cutting height of alfalfa are designed to maximize yield while maintaining high quality forages and stand longevity. Forage growers frequently cut forages at a height of 3-inches […]
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Wisconsin Forage Council AM/PM Forage Harvest Study by Jerry Clark1 and Randy Knapp2 Situation Recent studies done at USDA Agricultural Research Stations in Idaho indicate that pm harvested hay had greater concentrations of mono- and disaccharides (sugars), greater total nonstructural carbohydrates, and tended to have lower concentrations of both neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber. In […]
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