Broadleaf herbicides will eliminate these plants, lowering the quality of the prairie hay and wildlife habitat. Spot treat heavy infestations of fire resistant woody species such as sumac, persimmon or oak, and weeds such as musk thistle, cheat or fescue. Leave some clumps of sumac, dogwood or wild plum for summer brood and hardcore winter cover. Read and follow label directions when using herbicides. The health, vigor and productivity of the warm-season grass components of a prairie must have been restored through proper management before a favorable response to fertilizer can be expected.
Fertilizer can increase hay production, but it can also create weed problems.
Do not attempt to restore poorly managed prairie through fertilization, and do not fertilize unless used in conjunction with prescribed burning. Grazing or Second Cutting Grazing after haying or taking a second cutting will not allow warm-season grasses time to rebuild their root reserves, will encourage weeds, and will reduce next year's production. Part of the regrowth may be grazed after a killing freeze stops growth, but at least 4 inches of stubble should be left as cover for the plants and soil through the winter. The main drawback to dormant grazing is that it reduces fuel for prescribed burns, encourages invasion of cool-season grasses, encourages erosion and eliminates wintering and nesting cover for wildlife. Grazing in years in which hay is not harvested is an acceptable practice.