If managed properly, a pasture will be an economical source of high-quality feed, as well as a safe place for dairy cattle to graze. If managed poorly or ignored, a pasture can soon become an overgrazed weed patch with little nutritional value and may even contain plants that can be hazardous to your dairy animals health.
The best way to maximize milk production for dairy cattle is from the highest quality feed possible. For grazing or haying, these harvesting guidlines can help your crop achieve its potential:
- Grazing - Move animals in to graze when plants reach 10-12 inches in height and remove when there is 3 to 4 inches remaining.
- Haying - Harvest when plants when they reach 10-16 inches in height and cut no lower than 3-4 inches for faster regrowth. Best
Management Practices
Use the following best management practices are recommended for ensuring your pastures are productive and profitable for years to come.