See the steps Florida beef producers should be taking in the spring pasture to get ready for warmer weather and plan for success.
“As temperatures rise, it’s time to begin preparing your pasture for spring green-up. Taking a few proactive steps now can improve forage production, reduce weed pressure, and set your grazing system up for success,” advised a UF/IFAS blog article. The first steps are concerned with soil. See them below.
Spring Pasture Steps: Soil
The first steps in spring pasture management should focus on soil. The blog advised Florida beef producers that “The first step in preparing your pasture is determining what your soil needs to support optimal growth. The best way to do this is through a soil test.”
A soil test “provides information on soil pH, lime requirements, macronutrient status (P, K, Ca, Mg, S), and micronutrients (Cu, Mn, Zn, B), depending on the test selected,” the blog shared, adding that “In Florida’s sandy soils, nutrient management is especially important because excess nutrients are easily lost.”
The blog advised Florida beef producers to take the following steps:
- “Collect multiple soil cores.
- Mix thoroughly in a clean bucket.
- Allow soil to air dry.
- Place the mixed sample in a labeled bag for submission.”
- Send samples to a UF/IFAS Soil Testing Laboratory, and they have soil test forms and instructions available.
One soil test results come back, the next step is to adjust soil pH if needed. The blog shared that “Lime applications take time to adjust pH, so earlier applications are beneficial.”
Steps to take from the blog to adjust soil pH include:
- “If soil pH is low, dolomitic limestone may be recommended.”
- “If soil pH is high, switching your nitrogen source to ammonium sulfate can gradually help lower pH over time.”
- Always follow soil test recommendations to avoid unnecessary expense.”
See our next blog concerning fertilization and weed control in the spring pasture.
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.