This is the final Alfalfa Report for 2017. Most all fields are now at or beyond peak quality and many in the southern portions of the region were mowed this past week. Alfalfa responded to a bit of sun and warmth late last week, but rain and wet conditions still dominate the story. Many fields in Jefferson and Lewis Counties were mowed during the brief window of dry weather late last week. Remaining alfalfa fields were mostly lodged due to rain and wind. All grasses are now headed and have significantly declined in quality. Fields with 20% grass or more are now beyond ideal NDF according to the graph above (above the line). Again, once fields are past their prime, send them to the bottom of the mowing order and prioritize fields where quality is still high. Using this approach, at least some high quality forage will be harvested. Increased prevalence of dandelions in many fields may indicate loss of alfalfa and/or grass plants from the 2016 drought.

Opportunities to make dry hay have been virtually nonexistent so far this spring. The forecast for the coming week holds promise, however. Grass fields and winter cereals are likely low quality feed at this point. Be sure to mow at a height of no less than 4" above soil surface and below grass heads.

Scout grass hay fields for armyworm as many small infestations have been reported. This timing is early enough that we will potentially have additional generations of this pest this season.





(pdf; 151KB)