Hay

The Maryland Milk Moos (March 23, 2023, Vol. 4, Issue 1) is a quarterly newsletter published by the University of Maryland Extension that is focused on dairy topics related to Nutrition and Production, Herd Management, and Forage Production. In this issue, we focus on antibiotic regulation changes, dietary supplements for cows, and spring weed control for pastures and hayfields.

As things are greening up this spring, you may notice a few not-so-friendly plants popping up around your fields, especially given the milder weather this past winter. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to scout your pastures and hayfields in search of winter annual and biennial weeds. When it comes to weed control, timing of herbicide application critical and it is important to spray when weeds are most susceptible to achieve maximum effectiveness.

The Maryland Milk Moos (December 21, 2022, Vol. 3, Issue 4) is a quarterly newsletter published by the University of Maryland Extension that is focused on dairy topics related to Nutrition and Production, Herd Management, and Forage Production.

Winter Hay Feeding Strategies

Orchardgrass is a popular pasture and hay forage species and it requires relatively high fertility levels, especially in a hay system where nutrients are being exported from the field. To test and demonstrate the importance of potash (potassium) fertility in orchargrass plantings, we established a replicated trial at the Western Maryland Research and Education Center.

Most of us are aware that forage losses can accumulate in a hurry, particularly for hay. Adding up potential losses incurred during harvest, storage, and feeding, as much as 60% of forage dry matter can be lost between the field and the cow’s mouth. Title: Proper Storage Saves Forage; Author: Amanda Grev, Ph.D., Extension Specialist, Pasture & Forages.

Now is the time to scout pasture and hay fields for Japanese stiltgrass and take note of its locations. This invasive grass is typically seen in wooded areas, but unfortunately has been creeping into fields. Once the seed heads start to form in another month or two, you’ll want to have the mower ready.

When it comes to production of harvested forages like hay or baleage, stand decline is a common issue many producers face. Unfortunately, like most things there is no simple answer to eliminate issues with stand decline. Poor soil fertility, disease, temperature, moisture, and weed pressure are all things that can play a role in the longevity of a stand. While some of these things may be out of our control, one thing that producers do have full control over is cutting height. If you want to harvest higher quality forages, have better regrowth, and improve stand longevity, pay attention to your cutting height. Title: How Low Can You Go? The Cutting Height Debate; Author: Amanda Grev, Ph.D.

IPM scouting tips that appear in the Agronomy Newsletter.