Do you need to reseed?

The offseason is planning season, which includes preparing for pasture and hayfield improvements. In this case, a good plan will justify why, how, and when stand maintenance is required, as well a budget those improvements must stay within.

In a recent article from Ohio State University Extension, Jordan Penrose explains three ways to give forage stands a boost, ranging from simple to complex: frost seeding, interseeding, and complete renovation. Although drought damage may be the main driver of reseeding in the Buckeye State next spring, Penrose notes naturally thinning pastures and hayfields can also benefit from any one of these reseeding methods.

Frost seeding. In general, frost seeding is the simplest and cheapest reseeding solution. Penrose explains that this approach involves spreading seed on an established pasture or hayfield during late winter or early spring when the ground is still frozen — usually between early February and mid-March. Subsequent freeze-thaw cycles should incorporate seeds into the soil.

“The key to succeeding with frost seeding is being able to see bare ground when you spread the seed so there can be good seed-to-soil contact for the best chance of germination,” the agriculture and natural resources educator writes. “If there is snow on the ground, it is recommended that you wait to seed because when the snow melts, it could carry the seed away.”

Legume seeds are heavier than grass seeds, making them better candidates for frost seeding. Grass seeds, on the other hand, are better suited for interseeding.

Interseeding. This method can help improve forage yield and diversity in existing grass pastures or hayfields. In addition to filling out a thinning stand, Penrose suggests interseeding drought-tolerant forages into established stands may be a proactive way to supplement summer forage production.

Equipment and timing are the most important factors for interseeding with the goal of reducing competition from other forages. The best times of year to interseed are typically early spring or late summer following a close grazing event or hay harvest. Monitor new growth carefully and avoid overgrazing seedlings during the first growing season.

“This method will tend to cost more than frost seeding but is a good option if there is still a stand to work with that you believe is not ready for a complete makeover in that entire field,” Penrose states.

Complete renovation. This will be the most expensive option up front, but Penrose contends complete renovations may be more cost-effective than other reseeding methods in the long run, especially when a pasture or hayfield has been badly damaged.

“Complete renovation can seem intensive, but in severely depleted fields, it often provides the best chance for a productive and resilient forage stand in future seasons,” Penrose asserts.

Even though pasture renovations are typically carried out in late summer or early fall, Penrose suggests now is a good time to determine the best methods for forage termination and reseeding. For example, consider using tillage or herbicides to terminate an existing stand. Then, decide what forage species are best suited for the field.

“Following the renovation, it’s essential to manage grazing carefully in the first year,” Penrose advises. “Allow the new forage to establish fully before grazing or cutting, as it needs time to build strong root systems.”