Fertilizing Pastures in Northeast Nebraska
If you are looking for improved pasture yields this upcoming growing season, taking a look at your fertility plan may be beneficial. Soil type, to pography, and plant species along with your operational goals all play a role in determining what approach will work best for you.
Unless you’ve done one recently, conducting soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels-especially phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and nitrogen (N) should be our first task. Soil pH should be maintained near 6.0 to 7.0 with
legume heavy pastures being closer to 7.0. Acidic soils may need lime to improve nutrient availability. Sampling every 3 to 5 years is recommended for established pastures.
Nitrogen is typically the most limiting nutrient in cool season pastures.
Cool-season grasses like smooth bromegrass and orchardgrass respond well to split N applications: once in early spring (April) and again in late summer/ early fall (August) if moisture is available and fall growth is desired. For hayed pastures, apply 50 to 80 pounds of actual N per acre in spring. For rotational grazing systems, 30 to 50 pounds per acre per application is often sufficient.
Avoid applying nitrogen during dry spells, as uptake is moisture-dependent and becomes the limiting factor for growth. Warm season species are more nitrogen efficient, so lower rates can be applied one time during their early summer growth if desired. Often however, these species are more moisture than nitrogen limited.
Phosphorus promotes strong root development and early season growth, while potassium improves plant hardiness and disease resistance. In northeast Nebraska's silty clay and loess soils, phosphorus and potassium availability can vary widely. Apply P and K based on soil test recommendations, usually once per year in late fall or early spring until corrected. These nutrients don’t leach readily, so timing is less critical than with nitrogen and once sufficient levels have been reached, status can be monitored by testing every 3-4 years. Micronutrients like Sulfur and Boron may also need to be applied on a case by case basis.
Incorporating legumes such as red clover, white clover, or alfalfa can provide significant nitrogen through biological fixation. Pastures with at least 30% legume content may not require additional N fertilizer and can actually lessen legume stand life. Manure from nearby livestock operations is another excellent nutrient source but should be tested for nutrient content before applying.
Fertilizer application should occur when soils are moist but not saturated, and when plants are actively growing. For cool season pasture spring applications, mid- to late April is ideal. In fall, aim for late August to early September.
For warm season pastures, shoot for late May to early June. Avoid fertilizing frozen ground or during drought conditions.
With thoughtful planning and regular soil testing, northeast Nebraska pas tures can be fertilized effectively to improve productivity, support livestock nutrition, and protect the environment.
