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ARS Home » Northeast Area » University Park, Pennsylvania » Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #336416
Title: Choosing cover crops for a fall grazing season

Author
item Dillard, Sandra
item Soder, Kathy

Submitted to: Progressive Forage Grower
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/10/2017
Publication Date: 9/1/2017
Citation: Dillard, S.L., Soder, K.J. 2017. Choosing cover crops for a fall grazing season. Progressive Forage Grower. p.1-2.

Interpretive Summary: No Interpretive Summary is required for this Trade Journal. JLB

Technical Abstract: Forage brassicas are annuals that can be utilized as pasture during the spring, summer, and fall grazing seasons. They are quick maturing and can be grazed 60 to 120 days after planting. A 2-year study at the USDA-ARS PSWMRU showed that yield and total digestible nutrients of three brassica varieties were similar and all were greater than annual ryegrass. However, the crude protein content of all four forage varieties was similar. Due to low fiber content, animal diets should not contain more than 50% brassica due to high water content and concentrations of plant metabolites that can cause decreased animal performance. Overall, brassicas can be a useful tool for extending the grazing season. However, to have the maximum benefit, the forage and grazing management must be carefully considered.