Forage harvest and storage

Predicting forage yield

Stem and plant density as predictors of forage yield

Stem and plant density measurements can help determine the success of establishment, yield potential after winter injury, and when to terminate the stand. The study reported in this article looks at the potential of using these measurements to predict forage yield.

Maximize quality

Find strategies to predict yield, maximize forage quality and avoid storage losses in Minnesota.

Alfalfa cutting and harvesting

Harvesting alfalfa

Seeding year harvest management for alfalfa
Using growing degree days (GDD) to plan early-season alfalfa harvests
Hay rake type impacts ash content in hay
How does tedding affect alfalfa silage production?

Assessing alfalfa quality in the field

How to estimate alfalfa quality in the field using PEAQ
Alfalfa scissors cut sampling procedure
In-field assessments: Current tools and future directions

Maintaining hay quality

Measuring alfalfa forage quality
Wrapping hay
Preserving the value of dry stored hay

Alternative uses and forages

New uses for alfalfa: Aquafeeds
Pricing and using alternative forages

Pastures and grazing

Plants poisonous to livestock
Pasture rental and lease agreements
Plan your forage supply for summer grazing
Research: Cover crops for grazing systems