Wheat forage containing 25 percent crude protein will contain 80 pounds of nitrogen in each ton of dry matter. A soil test for available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulfur is helpful in evaluating the amount of supplemental nutrients needed. Depending on climatic conditions, wheat pasture may be grazed in the fall, in the spring, or both. During mild winters with adequate rainfall, some winter growth occurs. Most grazing occurs during late fall and early winter and again in spring, with animals removed early enough to allow good grain production.
Some producers completely graze out the wheat, precluding grain harvest.
During graze-out, forage production is increased and stocking rates are increased from two to three times the winter rate. To maximize forage for grazing, early seeding, increased seeding rate, and more nitrogen fertilizer is recommended. Depending on rainfall and stored soil moisture, wheat pasture is generally available for 120-150 days. Grazing cannot begin until the plants have adequate root development to prevent their being uprooted by grazing animals. Ordinarily, wheat is available for grazing between October 15 and November 15.