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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Raleigh, North Carolina » Plant Science Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #313429

Title: Mixed bermudagrass–tall fescue pastures to extend the grazing season

Author
item Franzluebbers, Alan

Submitted to: Trade Journal Publication
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/10/2015
Publication Date: 1/15/2015
Citation: Franzluebbers, A.J. 2015. Mixed bermudagrass–tall fescue pastures to extend the grazing season. Trade Journal Publication. ..

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: This agricultural extension article describes a strategy to increase the sustainability of pastures in the southeastern USA. A soil scientist at USDA-Agricultural Research Service in Raleigh NC summarized the results of a long-term research experiment conducted in northern Georgia. Mixed cool- and warm-season perennial forages were grown simultaneously to extend the grazing season and increase productivity of the same parcel of land. Balanced botanical composition depended upon grazing strategy, primarily focused on controlling the endophyte-infected tall fescue component. Change toward a more sustainable beef weight gain occurred with time using a moderate grazing pressure rather than high grazing pressure. These results will be valuable for beef producers throughout the southeastern USA, but particularly those in the Piedmont region where these two forages excel.