Watson said most producers fail to graze fescue early enough in the spring. Turning grazing animals out earlier will let them eat the growing part before it reaches the boot stage. He rotates the cows rapidly during the plant's accelerated growth, then slows the rotation when plant growth slows. Removing more than half of the leaf volume by overgrazing stunts root growth. Removing 60 to 70 percent of the leaf volume reduces root growth by 50 and 78 percent, respectively.
Roots gather plant nutrients.
Food stored in the roots is essential for regrowth. Short tops mean short roots, and short roots mean less future leaf production for grazing. Lime is spread on pastures to promote maximum growth. It is added to the soil during reseeding, otherwise it is spread on the surface. A soil test determines lime needs.