The following publications cover topics related to Forages. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Soil Testing and Fertilizer Management Strategies for Warm-Season Forage in Missouri
New
To ensure optimal growth and nutritive value, testing soil and applying the right fertilizers based on soil test reports at the right time are essential.
Maximizing Summer Grazing: A Guide to Warm-Season Forage Management in Missouri
New
Warm-season grasses provide high-quality forage during the hot summer months. This guide offers key tips for Missouri livestock producers on managing warm-season grasses effectively.
Cash Rental Rates in Missouri
Revised
Updated with 2024 survey data, this guide provides average cash rental rates for Missouri cropland and pastureland, aiding informed lease decisions.
Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) Insurance in Missouri
Revised
Protect your grazing or hay farming operation from drought risk. Get tips and examples for understanding how PRF insurance works and choosing a policy.
Pasture Fence Construction Budget
New
Detailed cost estimates for building perimeter and interior fences on Missouri farms, including materials, labor, and equipment.
Native Warm-Season Grass Seed Production
New
This guide provides a description of the methodology behind harvesting native warm-season grass seeds, including management tips, maturity indicators, harvest methods, and a production budget.
Forage Crop Irrigation Systems and Economics
Revised
Before choosing a forage irrigation system to mitigate drought risk, explore expected forage response to irrigation, equipment options and the economics.
Big Bluestem, Indiangrass and Switchgrass
Reviewed
Big Bluestem, Indiangrass and Switchgrass have been reintroduced successfully across Missouri. Visit our website today to learn more.
Bermudagrass
Reviewed
Bermudagrass makes excellent warm-season pasture and is gaining popularity in Missouri. Visit our website today to learn more.
Blister Beetle Management in Alfalfa
Revised
Blister beetles in alfalfa pose a serious risk to livestock due to cantharidin toxicity, especially during summer harvests. Learn how to manage infestations.
Grasshopper Control in Missouri Forage Crops and Pastures
Revised
Protect forage crops and pastures from grasshopper damage with early detection and control strategies tailored for Missouri's conditions.
Drought-Related Issues in Forage, Silage and Baleage
Revised
Get answers to questions about how to feed livestock during drought. Read about nitrate toxicity, corn silage and baleage, forage grazing and feeding hay.
Reducing Losses When Feeding Hay to Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Feeding hay to cattle is expensive, mostly due to waste. Learn good management practices to minimize the losses that occur due to poor storage methods, improper feeding methods, or both.
Missouri Grazing Manual
Reviewed $20
Learn how soil, forages and animals interact in grazing systems, and get ideas for improving pasture quality and extending the grazing season for beef or dairy.
Crop Nutrient Deficiencies and Toxicities
Reviewed
Editor's note
The following abstract describes a publication that is only available as a downloadable PDF.
Wheat Silage for Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Learn how to effectively use wheat silage for beef cattle, including optimal harvest timing and moisture levels for improved feed quality.
Dairy Grazing: Pasture Establishment
New
Establishing permanent pastures for dairy grazing involves selecting appropriate forage species, ensuring soil fertility, and choosing optimal seeding times
Managing the Armyworm Complex in Missouri Field Crops
New
Learn to identify and manage true, yellowstriped, beet, and fall armyworms in Missouri field crops, including corn, wheat, and pastures
Managing Manure on Alfalfa Hay
New
Optimize alfalfa hay production by applying manure to enhance phosphorus and potassium levels, improve yields, and manage soil fertility effectively.
Tall Fescue Toxicosis
New
Tall fescue is Missouri's most widely used forage crop. Visit our site to learn about Tall Fescue Toxicosis.
Eastern Gamagrass
Reviewed
Eastern Gamagrass is a highly productive grass and is a high-quality forage crop. Visit our website today to learn more.
Using NDF and ADF to Balance Diets
Reviewed
Estimate forage intake and energy values for cattle diets using NDF and ADF measurements to optimize animal performance and feed efficiency.
Alfalfa
Reviewed
Alfalfa is the most productive legume for Missouri. Visit our website today to learn more about Alfalfa.
Making and Storing Quality Hay
Reviewed
Properly making and storing hay and greatly reduce dry matter loses. Visit our site to learn about Making and Storing Quality Hay.
The Bluegrasses
Reviewed