First, have soil tests done. Soil tests are especially important now because it is wasteful to apply more fertilizer than needed. Take the guesswork out of fertilization. Get soil tests done and get the facts. Next, apply fertilizer when it will do the most good.
Timing is particularly crucial with nitrogen fertilizers.
Nitrogen leaches out of the soil easily, so try to apply just before times of optimum growing condition. If soils are dry, delay applications until after rains or when it is apparent that rain is imminent. In addition to applying the correct amount of nitrogen, farmers need to pay attention to soil pH. Nitrogen fertilizers decrease soil pH, but nitrogen and other nutrients are most available to forages when soil pH is between 5.8 and 6.5. Therefore, it's crucial to apply the correct amount of lime as indicated by a soil test. Soil testing, liming and fertilizing in correct amounts affect the level and economic efficiency of forage production.