Pasture Planting Planting grass and legumes to reduce soil erosion and improve production.

How it helps
Heavy grass cover slows water flow, reducing soil erosion.
Good pastures protect water quality by filtering runoff water and
    increasing infiltration.
Lush pastures give cover and habitat for wildlife.
As plants recycle and roots die, organic matter in the soil is improved.

Planning ahead
Are selected species suited to your soil types?
Have you chosen species that will help you reduce the use of pesticides 
    and herbicides?
Have you chosen species that will meet the needs of your livestock?

Tech notes
Do not mix warm and cool season grasses in the same pasture.
Selected grass and legumes should be compatible with the planned
    management.
When only two grass species are selected, they should make up equal
    proportions of the seeding mixture.
Add legumes to improve forage quality and extend the grazing season.
Drill seed uniformly to a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
Leave residues and till on the contour.
If erosion is a problem, leave at least 30% residue cover after planting.
Plant a nurse crop on steeper slopes or where weeds are a problem to 
    get a good stand. NRCS recommends seeding oats at 1 to 1 1/2 bu./acre
    as a nurse crop. *
Graze or closely chop pastures before reseeding. Apply a burndown
    herbicide.

Maintenance
Wait until pasture is well established to graze.
Mow weeds when they reach a height of 6-8 inches. * Control persistent
    weeds with herbicides.
Fertilize as needed.

* Check local recommendations.

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