Page 29 - MWC 2-2-2023s

Frost Seeding Clover: A Recipe for Success The Midwest Cattleman · February 2, 2023 · P29

By Chris D. Teutsch, S. Ray Smith, and Jimmy Henning, University of Kentucky

Legumes are an essential In the past, the positive im- implement. Frost seed-
part of strong and healthy pact of clover on tall fescue ing is accomplished
grassland ecosystems. toxicosis has always been by broadcasting clo-
They form a symbiotic re- thought to simply be a dilu- ver seed onto existing
lationship with Rhizobium tion effect, but new research pastures or hayfields
bacteria in which the bacteria from the USDA’s Forage An- in late winter and al-
fix nitrogen from the air into imal Production Unit in Lex- lowing the freezing
a plant available form and ington shows that compounds and thawing cycles to
share it with the legume. Clo- found in red clover can re- incorporate the seed
ver also increases forage qual- verse vasoconstriction that is into the soil (Figure 2
ity and quantity and helps to caused by the ergot alkaloids and 3). This method Figure 2. Frost seeding is accomplished by broad-
manage tall fescue toxicosis. in toxic tall fescue. The pri- works best with red casting clover seed onto closely grazed pastures in
mary compound found and white clover and late winter or early spring. Using GPS guidance
in red clover is a va- annual lespedeza. It is helps operators maintain equal spacing between
sodilator called Bioch- NOT recommended for passes and consistent speed (inset picture). (Photos
by Chris Teutsch)
anin A. seeding grasses or al-
Clover stands in falfa. This article cov- sion office.
pastures thin over ers the important factors for • Soil test and adjust fer-
time due to various successful frost seeding. tility. For clover and other
factors and require re- Frost Seeding Tips improved legumes to persist
seeding every three to • Control broadleaf weeds. and thrive in pastures, an
four years. There are Ideally, broadleaf weeds environment conducive for
several techniques for should be controlled prior to their growth must be created.
reintroducing clover seeding legumes since most This starts with proper soil
into pastures includ- herbicides will damage clo- fertility. Prior to frost seeding
ing no-till seeding, ver seedlings. This is best clover, soil test pastures and
minimum tillage, and accomplished by controlling hayfields then lime and fertil-
Figure 1. Clover and other legumes are an important frost seeding. Of these weeds the season prior to ren- ize pastures according to the
part of sustainable grassland ecosystems. They form techniques, frost seed- ovation. More information on
a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria soil test recommendations.
in which nitrogen from the air into a plant available ing requires the least controlling weeds in pastures • Suppress sod and de-
form, improve nutritive value, and help to alleviate amount of equipment and hayfields can be obtained
tall fescue toxicosis. (Photo by Chris Teutsch) and is the simplest to contacting your local exten- continued on page 32

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