A wheat pasture is a valuable resource for many cattle operations. This plant is a valuable source of high-quality forage when most other forages are low in quantity and quality. The unique climate in the Southern plains, like here in Texas, can allow producers to use wheat as both a forage and a grain crop. This dual purpose can potentially increase the overall profitability of many operations.
The fall and winter temperatures in this part of the country typically allow for significant growth before winter comes barreling in. Add to that the relatively few snow days we receive, and producers can extend their grazing season while keeping costs relatively low. Producers can see a grazing season that goes for 120-150 days, usually from November 1 to March 1, as a result.
Putting cattle on a wheat pasture is only sometimes a matter of just turning the cows loose on it. You can do some things to be more efficient when using wheat pastures for stocker calves and even cows. Here are four things to consider to get the most bang for your buck.
Grazing management in the fall can have an impact on your future forage production. The intensity of your grazing animals determines what state they will be in. Also, grazing during the winter may be limited depending on what forages you have available.
Performing a soil test is one of the most underutilized range management tools. Knowing your soil’s fertility and what nutrients are provided is crucial. Often, producers just put out the same fertilizer they always have and hope for the best.
Prickly pear, as well as other cactus species, is a common problem in pastures. It is not an uncommon sight to have many cacti growing out in a pasture. They can interfere with the movement of livestock and cause serious health problems.
Drought can be a very devastating thing to deal with. Forages stop producing, making it difficult for ranchers to make it. Drought can make things seem bleak while going through it.
Looking out onto a field of perfectly rolled hay bales is a beautiful sight to see. It is even more impactful if you are the one that baled them. You can feel yourself filled with pride in a job well done.
Having a good summer pasture management plan in place can save you many headaches later on. It will allow you to put out any potential fires, not literally, before they can occur.
Cedar, more accurately known as juniper, can be tricky to control. It is a very aggressive woody plant that grows here in Texas as well as in other places. It is often considered invasive because, if left unchecked, it can quickly take over a pasture choking out any grass growth.
Fertilizer costs have increased a lot over the last few decades, even more over the last couple of years. An example of this is that nitrogen fertilizer has doubled in just the last 2 years. With the way things are going it is not looking it will change for the better any time soon.
Spring is almost around the corner. The temperatures will soon start to rise and the grass, hopefully, will begin to grow again. For most people, pasture management comes to mind when the temperatures start to rise but that is not necessarily the case. It is important to get a start on it now.
