Rising Input Costs Affecting Haycrop, Pasture Management Options
January 18, 2022 9:54AM CST
Photo by Kyle Hill, Alpha Ag Network
The rising price of nitrogen, potassium, and other macronutrients critical for plant growth are also impacting how livestock handlers are managing their haycrop and pastures. University of Missouri Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg says with less room for error cost-wise, soil testing your pastures is more important than ever.
Schnakenberg adds that some adjustments to feeding and grazing strategies could help reduce input costs.
MU Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg notes that alternate nutrient sources, including lime, urea, or manure from nearby dairy and poultry operations, could help keep pasture costs manageable this season. Long-term solutions may include adding nitrogen-fixing legumes including clover and alfalfa.
