Producers Should Consider Frost-Seeding Pastures in February and Early March
By Stepeh K. Barnhart
19 Feb 2009 -
Ames, Iowa -- Producers wanting to add forage to their existing pastures should consider using the frost-seeding method in February and early March, said an Iowa State University (ISU) Extension forage specialist.
The frost-seeding method involves spreading forage seed on existing pastures during the late winter or very early spring while the ground is still frozen, said forage specialist Stephen Barnhart, who also works with the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University. Freeze-thaw cycles then provide shallow coverage of the seed, with help from early spring rains.
“Frost seeding is the easiest method producers have to add new forage grasses or legumes to their pastures,” Barnhart said. “And we’re coming into February and early March, which is an ideal time to consider this method.”
It’s likely the least expensive method, as well, he said.
Barnhart said to increase this method’s success, one should spread the seed on the thinnest pasture sod areas first and on areas where bare soil has been exposed due to heavy grazing.
One common misconception about frost seeding is that spreading the seed on top of snow works best. This is false, Barnhart said.
“The goal of frost seeding is to get seed on bare soil,” he said. “This is more effectively done without snow cover.”
Barnhart said red clover responds extremely well to frost seeding, adding it appears to be the most successful frost-seeded forage species. Other legumes, such as white clover and birdsfoot trefoil, also can be frost seeded but with less success than red clover, he said. In general, frost seeding does not work as well with grasses.
Using a drill to place the seed, referred to as interseeding, will also increase the success of frost seeding. A no-till drill places seed more precisely and allows producers to wait longer until soil conditions are more conducive to quick germination.
Regardless of whether one uses a drill, it’s important to maintain good grazing management while the newly added forage establishes itself.
For more information, contact Barnhart at 515-294-7835 or
