By Blake Jackson
Perennial cool-season grasses and legumes require a robust root system and ample organic reserves to endure Pennsylvania's winters.
Late fall seeding and harvesting can hinder these preparations, leading to winter injury and reduced forage quality.
While early spring seeding is possible, late summer or early fall seeding is generally more successful in Pennsylvania.
This timing offers several advantages, including reduced weed competition and the opportunity to harvest an annual crop before establishing the perennial forage. However, it's crucial to ensure adequate establishment before the first killing frost.
Recommended seeding dates in Pennsylvania are:
- Northern Pennsylvania: August 25
- Central Pennsylvania: September 5
- Southern Pennsylvania: October 1
Factors like seeding depth, seed-to-soil contact, long-term planning, tillage, and soil fertility management also influence successful establishment.
For detailed information, refer to the Penn State Extension Forage and Food Crops website.
Harvesting Timing
As days shorten and temperatures drop, perennial forages receive cues to prepare for winter. They store organic reserves, including non-structural carbohydrates and N-containing compounds, to survive the harsh conditions. This process requires time and adequate photosynthesis.
Harvesting perennial forages too late, close to the first killing frost, can disrupt this preparation. It promotes active aboveground growth, depleting the stored reserves. A sudden killing frost can then lead to winter kill.
If an additional harvest is desired, it's best to do so before the first killing frost. However, if necessary, harvesting after the frost may have minimal negative effects if the stubble height is appropriate.
Curing harvested forage after the frost can be challenging due to colder temperatures and increased precipitation. Green chopping or grazing are viable alternatives.
By carefully considering seeding and harvesting timing, Pennsylvania's perennial forage growers can optimize plant health, winter survival, and forage quality.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-frankoppermann
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Hay & Forage