Abstract

In 2017, the University of Vermont Extension Northwest Crops and Soils Program evaluated yield and quality of cool season annuals and mixtures of these annuals at Borderview Research Farm in Alburgh, VT. In the Northeast, cool season perennial grasses dominate the pastures and hay meadows farmers rely on throughout the season. Often times during the fall months, the perennial pasture will decline in yield and quality. Addition of cool season annual forages into the grazing system during this time may help improve the quality and quantity of forage and potentially extend the grazing season. Recently, there has been a growing interest in utilizing multiple cool season forage species to maximize yield and quality. We compared seven varieties of five annual species alone and in three-and four-species mixtures to evaluate potential differences in forage production and quality. While the information presented can begin to describe the yield and quality performance of these forage mixtures in this region, it is important to note that the data represent results from only one season and one location.

Keywords

Vermont, University of Vermont Extension

Publication Date

2017

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