If it starts raining today, pastures may not be up to par by fall grazing time. One plan to build your forage reserves includes small grains and ryegrass. It hinges on adequate rainfall before seed or fertilizer are applied. For fall production, select bottomland which stays moist during fall. For spring production, use upland that warms up early in spring.
Conventional tillage ensures the reduction of competition from existing vegetation.
No-till plantings have shown less winterkill than conventional seedings. Using no-till will also provide a firmer base for winter grazing than will conventional planting. For fall production, seedings should be made early. Plantings made after October 1 usually produce little fall growth. Because of damage from barley yellow dwarf virus, wheat, barley and oats should not be planted prior to September 1.