Last question today....

[warhammer]

I just had some acreage cleared to convert to pasture.
Is there any type of hay you can broadcast seed that will grow fast enough to allow the introduction of a low density of cattle within 9 months or a year?
Attached is a pic of the cleared area. Besides wanting to make a pasture out of this area I need to get the hay going to firm up the ground and prevent erosion.
Since the pic was taken I have picked up the large pieces and thrown them on the burn piles and have raked the ground.
I am assuming that I would need to disk the ground to a couple of inch depth, spread the seed, drag it and then hope to get a decent stand once the ground warms up a bit more.
Advice appreciated.

Warhammer

 

[jenkinsph]

I am in New Mexico and planted last weekend, soil temperature is close to 62 degrees, optimal germination is about 65 degrees as I understand it. So you will need to plant very soon to get ahead of the inevitable weeds. I planted a small 8 acre patch of fescue as a trial run, normally I would have used some type of pasture mix. For better resuts in permanent pasture I would hold off on cattle longer and give the new pasture a chance to go through next winter with a winterizer type fertilizer. This has really helped my root structure in town on my lot I cleared last Feb. and Mar. I tilled and planted this lot in July turning under the weeds, kept it clipped and applied the winterizer. Right now I am installing sprinklers and in digging the lines find the roots are about four to six inches deep in less than a year. Grass is greening up with all the snowfall moisture, so I am very satisfied with it.

To sum it up I think you would be better served long term to allow the grass to root and mature before turning in the cattle. Reseeding may cost more than what you will gain.

 

[bbirder]

Speak to your local county agent. They will know what is the best for your area.

 

[nickel plate]

Look up perennial (not annual) rye grass. It germinates fast on scratched ground and creates a decent pasture feed. I see it on sale in small 50 lb sacks around here in California for $40.00.

 

[mojoinco]

Get hold of your local NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) agent. They are usually co-located with the local Soil Conservation District (many have renamed themselves as resources conservation districts). They have a wealth of knowledge.

Drilling seed is very cost effective and much higher success rate. About 1/2 the seed is needed. Apparent cost is higher, but success rate is much higher (presuming enough rain). Turning the soil over is an issue as you plant the very weed seeds you are out to beat.

 

[EddieWalker]

I agree with talking to your county ag extension. They come out for free, look at the soil and can tell you what you need and who you need to talk to in about ten minutes.

My guess is that you will need to sprig it with bermuda to get it going that quickly. Seed is cheaper, but allot slower.

Eddie

 

[LRTX1]

Does bahia grass grow in your area? While not the best "hay" it grows fast and grazes cows well.