A warm, dry fall followed by sudden near‑record snowfall has left many Midwest pastures at higher risk for winterkill.

Perennial forages improve soil structure, reduce compaction and help leach salts from the root zone. For producers committed to stewardship, perennials are more than cover – they’re a strategy for resilience.

Crinkled leaves and discolored tops signal boron is missing and forage quality is decreasing. Boosting leaf growth with this micronutrient can mean higher feed value and healthier roots.

At Ladd Wahlen Farms, it begins with roots (small r) and ends with Roots (capital R).

2022 was a challenging year regarding precipitation throughout much of the Central and Western portions of the U.S. Many major cow-calf production regions, particularly in the central and southern Plains, are continuing to experience drought.

We may not be thinking of winter when temperatures are 80º to 90ºF, but we should now begin preparing alfalfa for winter if we want good winter survival and high yield next spring.