Alfalfa frost damage can sometimes occur in the spring after growth has started, resulting in damaged growing points. Some wilting can be visible about 24 hours after frost or some yellowish or brownish discolouration 3 or 4 days later. The top of the stems will typically bend over with a “shepherd’s hook”. Damage is often minimal […]
Late planting dates, low Crop Heat Unit (CHU) accumulations, and early frost may result in situations where corn is killed by frost before it reaches the normal stage of maturity and moisture for silage. Some fields planted for grain may not mature adequately for optimum yield, moisture and quality. Farmers may be looking at salvaging […]
There is a significant increase in acres of new forage seedings. Many forage seedings are already in the ground. Ensure good seed-to-soil contact by preparing a firm seedbed. Forage inventories are exceptionally low for this time of year, with record high hay prices being reported. Frost Damaged Alfalfa: A considerable amount of alfalfa was damaged […]
There was an early break in alfalfa dormancy in early- to mid-March. In some areas, significant alfalfa growth (up to 6 – 8 inches or more) was frost damaged when colder temperatures returned on March 30th (-7°C or colder). Damage was most severe in south-western Ontario, on good healthy stands with early, aggressive growth. Ironically, […]