News — Forages

Nitrate Poisoning: What Livestock Producers Need to Know Submitted by: Gilbert Barrett   As we move through the growing season, livestock producers acrossNortheast Georgia and the Southeast should remain aware of the risk of nitratepoisoning in both grazed and harvested forages. While nitrate accumulation is oftenassociated with drought-stressed crops, several common forage species can developdangerous nitrate levels under a variety of growing conditions. Forages Most Commonly Associated with Nitrate AccumulationSeveral warm-season annual grasses are particularly prone to accumulating nitrates,including:SorghumSudangrassSorghum-Sudangrass HybridsJohnsongrassPearl MilletCrabgrassHowever, producers should not overlook perennial forages. Under certain conditions,nitrate levels can also become elevated in:Tall FescueBermudagrassAnnual RyegrassSmall Grains such as...

Foxtail is a culprit and invades forages in the summer months.  To effectively control the grassy weed in cool season perennial grasses such as fescue, a pre-emergent herbicide protocol must start in Georgia in mid to late February. Using a pre-emergent spray application for foxtail control in fescue, annual foxtail can be effectively managed with Prowl H2O. Here’s the recommended approach: First Application: Apply 3 quarts per acre in mid-February. It's critical to have at least ½ inch of rainfall within 36-48 hours after application to activate the pre-emergent barrier. Follow-Up Applications: Apply 2 quarts per acre every 75-90 days. The greater the rainfall, the closer to the 75-day mark the application should be...

Frost seeding white clover in northern Georgia is an effective method for improving pastures and enhancing forage quality. This technique involves broadcasting clover seeds over existing pastures in late winter, typically between January and early March, when the ground experiences regular freeze-thaw cycles. The natural expansion and contraction of the soil help incorporate the seeds improving germination without the need for tilling. White clover is particularly well-suited for frost seeding due to its small seed size and ability to establish in cool conditions. This method enhances nitrogen fixation, reduces weed competition, and provides high-quality forage for livestock. For best results,...

Farmers Exchange is proud to offer NovaGraz, Corteva’s newest herbicide designed for effective broadleaf weed control without lingering soil residual activity. NovaGraz is perfect for farmers and ranchers who need flexibility in their pasture management, featuring a short plant-back interval—just 14 days for forage grasses and 30 days for forage legumes—so you can quickly return to productive grazing. Plus, with a 90-day crop rotation window, it’s an excellent choice for areas where extended residual control isn’t desired. Whether you're managing pastures or native plantings, NovaGraz delivers powerful weed control while maintaining the flexibility you need. Visit White County Farmers Exchange today to learn more!   https://www.corteva.us/products-and-solutions/pasture-management/novagraz.html