Seeding Alfalfa into Established Pasture with Zero-Till Openers

Western Beef's Dr. Paul Jefferson shares 2011 results from a small plot research project that looked at the use of zero-till openers to seed alfalfa into an established pasture stand. While there was little difference between the openers, pre-seeding burn-off (with glyphosate) was shown to be an important factor for successful alfalfa seedling establishment. Funding for this demonstration project was provided through the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture under the ADOPT Program.

[@alexgrover1456]

I would like to see this experiment done with mowing rather than chemical control.

[@silverdust46]

I agree. I'd like to see a no chemical comparison with mowing or different grass types.

[@JamesTyreeII]

NO SPRAYING POISON! JUST drill after grazing or mowing. PERIOD!

[@redddbaron]

Yep but for best results use the second bite principle in reverse.

[@StarVoyager9]

Can't have a certified organic product with a herbacide added.

[@MsTokies]

they want to gain as much control of no -till .

[@thomasgarcia6024]

Why spray poison? Why not seed after the pasture has been grazed, or mowed to mimic grazing? Isn't the idea to improve pasture not kill it and replace it with an alfalfa field? Seems like a backhanded roundup sales pitch to me. This is an example of science to promote the chemical industry, instead of science to find a better way. What do I know I'm just a dumb farmer.

[@itsmeagain7246]

spraying pastures? LOL how about proper management and building soil? also try forage trees for drought situations.

[@peterhagar8575]

They did all treatments with no herbicide burn down as a control. Even with herbicide, the grasses did recover and they ended up with a mixed stand.