A DEMONSTRATION OF THE VALUE OF ADDING LEGUMES TO EXISTING TALL FESCUE PASTURES IN NORTHWEST MISSOURI
Doty,* R.E.1; Benedict, H.R.2; Deering, S.W.3; Flanary, W.E.4; Humphrey, J.R.5; Schleicher, A.D.61Regional Agriculture Business Specialist, MU Extension, Maryville, MO, 64468
2Regional Agronomy Specialist, MU Extension, Bethany, MO, 64424
3Regional Livestock Specialist, MU Extension, Albany, MO, 64402
4Regional Agronomy Specialist, MU Extension, Oregon, MO, 64473
5Regional Livestock Specialist, MU Extension, Savannah, MO, 64485
6Regional Livestock Specialist, MU Extension, Rock Port, MO, 64482
Abstract:
Northwest Missouri livestock pastures and hay fields are abundant in tall fescue. In this region, nitrogen is typically applied in the spring to increase forage production. Legumes are often overseeded at the same time as the nitrogen application, which is counterproductive. Knowing this, regional agriculture Extension specialists identified the need to demonstrate the use of legumes in tall fescue pasture to reduce the need for nitrogen fertilizer and the timing of nitrogen application to increase forage production. In this demonstration, 14 treatments were identified to show the differences in using legumes and nitrogen application timings. Plots were established at the Hundley-Whaley Research Center measuring 9 X 15 feet with 10-foot alleys with four replications in a randomized complete block design. The plots were harvested throughout the growing season and yields were measured. Both 2008 and 2009 had higher than average rainfall which provided plenty of moisture for growth. The 2009 data showed no statistical differences in total forage harvest. Differences in the value of the forages were found when applying economical data. In both 2008 and 2009, common red clover overseeded in tall fescue resulted in the highest income over fertility and seed costs. Nitrogen prices were high in 2008 which resulted in legumes being a more cost-effective approach to maintaining production. Results have been shared with producers in an annual producer’s guide and through field days to help producers learn more about the value of using legumes in their tall fescue fields compared to various nitrogen applications.