One of the most important ssteps in producing forage crops, as other crops, is the planting operation. It is essential to start with high quality seed of a recommended variety. Also, if the wrong seeding rate is used, if the seed is planted at the wrong time, if it's planted at the wrong depth, etc., the chances of producing a good yield are reduced or eliminated. In fact, there are probably more possibilities for a producer to make yield-reducing errors during planting than at any other time--especially in the production of forage crops.

This planting guide has been developed to help producers in establishing most forage grasses commonly grown in Alabama. The fact that information is given for a particular species, however, should not necessarily be taken as a recommendation to grow that species. Some commonly grown forage species are not recommended by Auburn University. Also, some varieties of a given species may produce well while others do not. In summary, this guide offers information as to how to have the best chance of establishing a forage grass species once the decision to plant it has been made.

Five Steps To Higher Yields And More Profit:

1. Start with high-quality seed.
   Plant certified seed of a recommended variety.
   Plant treated seed for protection against disease.
2. Get the most from your soil.
   Test your soil to determine nutrient needs.
   Fertilize and lime your soil according to test results.
3. Plant for good stands.
   Place seed at proper depth in good seedbed.
   Plant when soil temperature and moisture are best.
   Plant correct rate of seed per acre.
4. Manage for high yields.
   Maintain soil fertility.
   Control weeds, insects, and diseases.
5. Harvest for high yields.
   Harvest at the right time.
   Adjust equipment properly.
   Protect quality by proper handling and storage.

Stage Of Harvest For Silage Or Hay:

Corn for silage -- full dent (35% D.M.).
Sorghum for silage -- late milk to medium dough (35% to 45% moisture).
Coastal bermuda -- first cutting at 15 to 18 inches high and every 21 to 28 days thereafter during summer.
Small grain -- boot to early milk stage.
Other grasses -- boot stage (just before seed heads appear).

For more information, contact your county Extension office. Visit http://www.aces.edu/counties or look in your telephone directory under your county's name to find contact information.

Published by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University), an equal opportunity educator and employer.

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