The advice you need to grow and graze.
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Drought’s impact on soil testing
Dry soils can affect soil test results causing inaccurate results and inaccurate fertility application. When possible, wait for rain before taking those samples.
Illinois livestock at risk from invasive new tick
The Asian longhorned tick has found its way to Illinois, bringing potential health risks for livestock, pets, and people with it. Teresa Steckler warns producers to inspect their livestock carefully.
Yes, there is a perfect pile of manure
There’s a lot you can learn from a cow pie. The shape and consistency of the manure pile is an indicator of the cow’s nutritional intake and conversion. What is your pile telling you?
Renting pasture may solve problems for landowners, producers
The high price of beef may have producers looking for ways to expand their herd. Renting pastures may allow for expansion but comes with its own set of challenges.
Healthy soils limit pasture weeds
One way to control pasture weeds is to ensure they never have the opportunity to grow.
Follow the clues to better forage quality
Forage quality is key to providing the nutrients grazing livestock need. Three factors impact forage quality: plant species, plant maturity, and plant part.
Prevent damage from alfalfa weevil
The alfalfa weevil is small, but their damage could reduce yields by 10 to 15% and decrease forage quality.
When to act (or not act) on aphids
The presence of aphids, small (1/16 to 3/16 inch) insects, in alfalfa fields is not necessarily justification to act. Aphids can often be kept in check by beneficial insects such as lady beetles.
Managing broomsedge in pastures
In spring, forages need time to reawaken from winter before they are grazed. Spring is a good time to evaluate your pasture and hay fields for weeds.