Prairie grass may contain lower levels of trace elements than other grasses. Inclusion of a legume in the mixture with prairie grass, or providing trace elements to animals consuming primarily prairie grass will eliminate potential problems. Prairie Grass Fertility Fertility needs at seeding should be determined by soil test. Soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is best for prairie grass, however it is adapted to slightly alkaline or acid soils. If prairie grass is seeded with a legume, reduce or eliminate nitrogen application at seeding.
Prairie grass requires a high level of fertility for maximum production.
It is also very responsive to N fertilization. If prairie grass is planted with alfalfa or another legume, restrict annual N applications to 40 or 50 lb. per acre to limit the effect N has on reducing nitrogen fixation of the legume. If prairie grass is grown without a legume, apply 100 to 200 lbs N per acre in split applications of 50 lbs per acre in early spring when the grass becomes green and 50 lbs per acre after each harvest and in early fall. Adequate nitrogen fertilization is essential for maximizing prairie grass growth in the fall. Additional and more detailed information on forage fertilization is also available.