An extension forage specialist says planting a mixture of forage plants can often ensure a better hay crop.
Clark County Wisconsin ag agent Richard Halopka tells Brownfield when using a monoculture system, you often get all or nothing, so it is wise to plant some insurance with the alfalfa. “That alfalfa legume added into that grass is very beneficial, not only supplying nitrogen for that grass crop, but it also brings in another component where if we get a dry spell, some of those legumes will come through where those grasses might take a vacation.”
Halopka says with corn, soybeans, and byproducts costing more now, farmers are working to get the most from their alfalfa hay.
