When you hear the word “fertilizer,” you may start thinking about growing crops and farm operations. But, fertility is an important ingredient in managing a successful pasture management system too.
Many cattlemen these days are using new and improved species of forages and grasses to ensure better yields and nutrition for their cattle herds. These new forage species have higher yield potential and greater nutritional value than many native grasses. But this extra potential may require more nutrients from the soil. When a field is depleted of its nutrients by overgrazing or poor management, forage production will suffer even if adequate moisture is available. Rotational, higher density grazing will help incorporate the manure and plant material into the soil helping build the natural organic matter and fertility of the soil. If enough rainfall is available, and with lower commercial fertilizer prices, it may be cost effective to add commercial fertilizer to increase production sometimes by 100 percent.
Many ranches use fertilizers to increase forage production very cost-effectively, especially with the high rents that are being paid. Here are a few tips from Drovers to help keep your pastures healthy.
- Schedule your manure distribution on a rotating basis to ensure an even fertilization.
- Move shade and salt and mineral around frequently to keep your cattle moving. If your herd gathers in one place frequently, that could increase the wear and reduce the efficacy of grasses in that spot.
- Drag out natural manure in existing fields in spring before new growth begins, especially on forage that falls dormant in the winter months.
- Collect soil samples from multiple sites to gather information on nutrient imbalances. This will also give you more insight to the need for additional supplements that may be needed.
- Ensuring a consistent feed supply is vital to cattle growth and development. At Flying H Genetics, we also have worked hard to create superior beef cattle genetics to better utilize your management and grazing resources. Whether you’re looking to expand your cowherd, replace and upgrade existing bull inventory or need semen for an artificial insemination program, call our team today at 308-962-6500.
