Pasture Tips

• Pre-Sowing
  A firm, clean seedbed is a necessity when establishing a pasture. Soil packing may be required to retain adequate soil moisture for germination. Packing should be avoided on soils where crusting is a problem.
• Control
  Allow weeds to germinate prior to sowing. Weeds should be eradicated with a non–selective, post-emergent herbicide prior to sowing.
• Adequate Soil Moisture
  Moisture should extend from the surface to at least 7 inches in depth. Providing a firm moist seedbed ensures close contact between the seed and soil allowing quicker and more uniform germination. Sowing should coincide with favorable moisture conditions.
• Seed Placement
  Seed should be neither exposed nor buried too deep. For optimum germination, seed should be planted 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
• Initial Grazing
  Grasses should be 5 to 6 inches tall, well anchored by an established root system, and there should be ample soil moisture prior to grazing. A quick grazing or mowing after these conditions are met will enhance tillering. Do not allow livestock to graze below 2 inches in height. Never graze newly sown pastures early, under dry conditions, or if grasses are poorly developed.