Consider Relative Reproductive Maturity of Grasses Seeded With Alfalfa
Our breeders continue to advance genetics of many cool-season grass species. When considering a particular cool-season grass species or variety, factor in the time of harvest of the alfalfa as well as the grass variety’s Reproductive Maturity (RM). This is most important for the first cutting each year of alfalfa-grass mixtures, as the crop grows longest during this period. Ideally, selecting a grass species variety in which the RM is similar to alfalfa, so maximum yield and quality is achieved. Furthermore, the goal is at time of harvest the yield and quality of alfalfa is maximized (approximately around bud, animal need dependent), while the grass species yield and quality is also maximized. To make the most of summer annuals in your forage system, it’s essential to have a well-thought-out plan, select products tailored to your operation, and secure seed supplies early in the season. Read more