forage and cover crop planting guide · 2020. 9. 1. · rapeseed 80 radish 81 turnips 82 corn...

PLANTING GUIDEFORAGE AND COVER CROP

TABLE OF CONTENTSALFALFA 4 - 14

Cavalry DQ 5

Armour RR 6

EnforceHT 7

Fierce XT 8

LeafGuard XL 9

Viper HVXRR 10

CLOVERS 15 - 31

Medium Red Clover 16

Gallant Red Clover 17

Alsike Clover 18

Crimson Clover 19

Ladino Clover 20

White Clover 21

Annual Clover 22

Sweet Clover 23

Plowdown Clover Mixes 24

Birdsfoot Trefoil 25

Crown Vetch 26

Hairy Vetch 27

Korean Lespedeza 28

Winter Peas 29

Spring Peas 30

Cowpeas 31

FORAGE GRASSES 32 - 44

Orchardgrass 33

Forage Tall Fescues 34

Smooth Bromegrass 35

Meadow Bromegrass 36

Meadow Fescues 37

Annual Ryegrass 38

Italian Ryegrass 39

Perennial Ryegrass 40

Festulolium 41

Timothy 42

Forage KY Bluegrass 43

Reed Canarygrass 44

FORAGE BLENDS 45 - 54

Ultimate Hay Blend 46

Premium Hay Blend 47

Cattle Grazer Blend 48

Pasture Blend 49

All Grass Forage Blend 50

Water - Way Blend 51

Triticale / Annual Ryegrass 52

Triticale / Pea Blend 53

Oat / Pea Blend 54

SUMMER ANNUALS 55 - 70

Sorghum Sudangrass 56

Sweet Six BMR 57

Sweet - Forever BMR 58

Forage Sorghum 59

Pearl Millet 60

Milo / Grain Sorghum 61

M6313 62

M6885 63

German Foxtail Millet 67

Japanese Millet 68

Teff Grass 69

Buckwheat 70

CEREAL GRAINS 71 - 76

Oats 72

Barley 73

Cereal Rye / Winter Rye 74

Triticale 75

Spelt 76

COVER CROPS 77 - 89

Chicory 78

Kale 79

Rapeseed 80

Radish 81

Turnips 82

Corn Champion Blend 83

Groundbuilder Radish 84

Beanbuilder Blend 85

Winter Mix 86

Oat Radish Blend 87

Annual Ryegrass 88

Cereal Rye / Winter Rye 89

All elite alfalfa is treated with Beck’s Escalate® yield enhancement system which includes a micronutrient package, a biological, and Apron XL® LS.

Some years the weather does not cooperate with growing alfalfa. That’s why Beck’s offers a one-time replant policy on all of our elite alfalfa varieties during stand establishment. If you think you may need to replant, a Beck’s representative can help you decide if replant is the best option and Beck’s will provide

the seed free of charge.

ALFALFAAlfalfa is the fourth most widely grown crop in the United States. It is high-yielding, high-quality, and very persistent once established. It is utilized by dairy, beef, horse, and other livestock industries. It can be grown alone or mixed with grasses, such as orchardgrass, timothy, brome, or fescue. It is high in forage quality, with crude protein levels ranging from 15% to 22%. Alfalfa grows best on soils that are well drained, high in fertility, and have a pH ranging from 6.7 to 7.0. At Beck’s, we continue to work with the finest alfalfa companies to bring you the latest traits and best genetics for your farming operation.

Variety NDFD Tons/A. Lignin RFQ Milk/Ton Milk/A.

CavalryDQ 41.9 6.75 6.2 169 3,354 22,637

Rebound 6.0 38.4 6.49 6.4 155 3,297 21,397

Pioneer 55Q27 38.7 6.47 6.5 147 3,228 20,885

Hi-Gest 360 41.9 6.31 6.0 151 3,238 20,602

Hybriforce 3400 41.1 6.32 6.4 146 3,238 20,466

WL 365HQ 41.7 6.55 6.3 148 3,233 21,173

• Fall Dormancy: 4.0

• Winterhardiness: 2.0

• Bred for outstanding yield potential while delivering superior forage quality

• Dairy-quality (DQ) alfalfa with multi-leaf expression

• High-quality forage attributes comparable to similar non-GMO reduced lignin alfalfas

2-Year Yield Comparison*

Seeding Information

Disease Resistance Index

Agronomic Characteristics

* Michigan State University Alfalfa Trail

Disease Resistance Level

Anthracnose HR

Aphanomyces Race 1 HR

Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR

Verticillium Wilt HR

Recovery Fast

Root Type Tap

Standability Excellent

Forage Yield Excellent

Forage Quality Excellent

Variety Tons/A.

CavalryDQ 9.70

Fierce 9.59

Pioneer 55Q27 9.56

FSG426 9.08

HybriForce 3400 9.04

Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A.

Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. +

Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.

Planting Dates Apr. - May, Aug. - Sept.

CAVALRY DQ

ALFALFA 5

• Disease Resistance: 30

• An excellent yielding, high forage quality Roundup Ready® alfalfa that can be planted on the majority of soil types across the Midwest

• Aphanomyces Race 1 and 2 resistance provides root rot protection for optimal stand

• Very high-yielding variety under 3, 4, and 5-cut harvest management

• A great weed control option paired with an excellent agronomic variety

Armour RR55V50

WL 355RRHybriForce 2400

LiberatorLegacy 449

13 15 15.51413.5 14.5

Tons/A.

2-Year Yield Comparison

Yield Comparison*

Seeding Information

* 4-Cut Total

Variety Tons/A.

Armour RR 7.58

55V50 7.18

WL 355RR 6.66


Liberator 6.39

Legacy 449 APH 2 6.69

54R02 6.37



Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.

Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept.



Anthracnose HR

Aphanomyces Race 1 and 2 HR

Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR



Recovery Fast

Root Type Tap




ALFALFA 6

ARMOUR RR• Fall Dormancy: 4.2





• High-ton genetics with outstanding yield potential

• Superior stand persistence and very fast recovery after harvest

• Handles wheel traffic exceptionally well

• Early spring green-up and later fall growth to maximize the harvest season

EnforceHT

54V46

HybriForce 2400

Attention II

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Tons/A.


Yield Comparison*

Seeding Information

* 4-Cut Total

Variety Tons/A.

EnforceHT 7.47

54R02 6.67

Consistency 4.1 RR 6.43

Attention II 6.04


54Q32 5.96



Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.


ENFORCE HT



Anthracnose HR


Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR



Recovery Very Fast

Root Type Tap

Standability Good


Forage Quality Good

ALFALFA 7




• High-yielding alfalfa bred for the toughest soils

• Excellent disease package with Aphanomyces Race 1, 2, and 3 resistance

• Exceptional stand persistence with fast regrowth

• A high-quality forage variety paired with a very fine stem

• Branch root

Variety CP NDFD Tons/A. Lignin RFQ Milk/Ton Milk/A.

Fierce XT 21.3 55.0 7.16 6.6 175 3,392 24,288

Hi-Gest 360 21.8 51.8 6.57 6.3 176 3,356 22,049

Rebound6XT 22.0 51.5 6.63 6.2 170 3,309 21,939

55Q27 20.5 50.5 7.15 6.8 159 3,263 23,333

WL 365HQ 21.2 50.1 6.59 7.0 159 3,252 21,434

Hybriforce 3400 21.5 50.6 6.95 7.1 155 3,227 22,430

FIERCE XT

Yield Comparison*

Variety Tons/A.

Fierce XT 6.39

WL 365HQ 5.66

Rebound6XT 5.57

55Q27 5.36

Hi-Gest 360 4.94

Hybriforce 3400 4.79

L-448HVXRR HarvXtra 4.62



Anthracnose HR

Aphanomyces Race 1 and 2 HR

Aphanomyces Race 3 MR

Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR


Seeding Information



Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.



Recovery Fast

Root Type Tap, Branch

Standability Good



ALFALFA 8

*2019 Harvest Evansville, WI - Seeded April 2016




• A true “no spray” variety with improved yield and leafhopper protection

• Dark green, fine stemmed, and highly palatable

• Great agronomics and high-yielding PLH product

• Excellent disease rating and winterhardiness to ensure a long, productive stand life

• Newest leafhopper genetics


Disease Resistance Level*

Anthracnose HR


Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR


Potato Leafhopper HR

LEAFGUARD XL


Recovery Fast

Root Type Tap


Forage Yield Good

Forage Quality Good

Seeding Information



Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.


ALFALFA 9




• HarvXtra® with Roundup Ready® technology for increased harvest flexibility without reducing forage quality

• Premium forage quality in a 3- or 4-cut schedule

• An excellent weed control option both during stand establishment and throughout the life of the stand

Viper HVRR54R0254V09

WL 355RRAttention II

Consistancy 4.10RR

14 16 16.51514.5 15.5

Tons/A.


*4-Cut Total

Yield Comparison*

Variety Tons/A.

Viper HVXRR 8.32

54R02 7.77

54V09 7.40

WL 355RR 7.22

Consistency 4.10RR 6.92

Attention II 6.72

Seeding Information



Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.




Anthracnose HR


Bacterial Wilt HR

Fusarium Wilt HR

Phytophthora HR



Recovery Fast

Root Type Tap




ALFALFA 10

VIPER HVXRR


Location – Sharpsville, IN 2019 Harvest

Planted – May 14, 2018

Plot Size – 2.5 ft. by 25 ft.

Replications – 2

Seeding Rate – 20 lb./A.

Cuttings – 4

Previous Crop – Soybeans

Tillage – Minimum

ALFALFA TESTING RESULTS

Testing By Rock River Laboratory, Inc.

Mean 5.29

LSD .05 NS

LSD .01 NS

CV % 4.20

Variety Tons/A. NDFD CP Lignin RFQ Milk/Ton Milk/A.

Armour RR RR 5.74 46.59 21.47 7.3 158 2,634 15,124

EnforceHT 5.75 45.40 20.95 7.1 128 2,404 13,337

Rebound6XT 5.38 47.16 21.90 6.4 150 2,552 13,728

B3043 5.38 46.85 20.68 6.4 140 2,530 13,613

CavalryDQ 5.36 48.20 23.33 7.1 147 2,583 13,842

Fierce 5.35 56.24 22.62 7.0 152 2,584 13,824

D.L. 3420 5.31 48.00 21.92 6.4 155 2,631 13,970

Hi-Gest 360 5.26 51.17 24.08 6.4 158 2,655 13,971

Leafguard II 4.77 44.14 21.18 7.4 124 2,354 11,220

W.L. 375 HVXRR 4.75 51.21 21.74 6.9 160 2,671 12,696

ALFALFA 11

ALFALFA TESTING RESULTSLocation – Waupaca, WI 2018 Harvest

Planted – May 15, 2017

Plot Size – 3 ft. by 17 ft.

Replications – 3


Cuttings – 4


Tillage – Minimum

Mean 6.79

LSD .05 0.61

LSD .01 0.81

CV % 5.40

Variety May 31, 2018 July 2, 2018 July 30, 2018 Aug. 30, 2018 Total

CavalryDQRR 2.43 2.12 1.48 1.29 7.32

Rebound6XT 2.17 1.98 1.36 1.21 6.72

Hybriforce 3430 2.31 1.89 1.26 1.13 6.59

EnforceHT 2.13 1.89 1.28 1.15 6.45

Hi-Gest 360 2.11 1.79 1.22 1.05 6.17

HarvXtra 1.87 1.77 1.18 1.02 5.84

ALFALFA 12


ALFALFA TESTING RESULTSLocation – Monticello, WI 2018 Harvest

Planted – April 25, 2017


Replications – 2


Cuttings – 4


Tillage – Minimum

Mean 5.32

LSD .05 0.47

LSD .01 0.70

CV % 3.77


EnforceHT RR 5.77 50.43 24.50 5.42 203 2,843 16,404

Hi-Gest 360 5.62 51.37 25.42 5.28 197 2,889 16,236

CavalryDQ 5.54 54.78 25.98 5.09 204 2,930 16,232

Armour 5.32 58.32 29.56 3.31 254 3,284 17,471

Fierce 5.28 55.19 23.39 5.59 193 2,892 15,270

D.L. 3420 5.26 53.36 22.77 5.64 188 2,857 15,028

WL 365 5.07 51.34 25.12 5.27 194 2,871 14,556

Leafguard II 4.69 52.54 25.22 5.23 210 3,005 14,093

ALFALFA 13


ALFALFA TESTING RESULTSLocation – Monticello, WI 2017 Harvest

Planted – April 25, 2017


Replications – 2


Cuttings – 3


Tillage – Minimum

Mean 4.03

LSD .05 0.38

LSD .01 0.57

CV % 4.01


CavalryDQ 4.26 52.24 21.74 5.94 189 2,996 12,763

Fierce 4.21 50.15 19.61 7.55 153 2,548 10,727

Hi-Gest 360 4.14 53.93 21.33 6.53 179 2,884 11,940

D.L. 3420 4.01 – – – – – –

Exp 174 4.00 – – – – – –

WL 365 3.94 – – – – – –

Leafguard II 3.85 – – – – – –

ALFALFA 14

In the following states, purchase and use of HarvXtra® Alfalfa with Roundup Ready® Technology is subject to a Seed and Feed Use Agreement, requiring that products of this technology can only be used on farm or otherwise be used in the United States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. In addition, due to the unique cropping practices do not plant HarvXtra® Alfalfa with Roundup Ready® Technology in Imperial

County, California, pending import approval and until Forage Genetics International, LLC (FGI) grants express permission for such planting. Forage Genetics International, LLC (“FGI”) is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). FGI products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with FGI’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology-Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. HarvXtra® Alfalfa with Roundup Ready® Technology and Roundup Ready® Alfalfa have pending import approvals. GROWERS MUST DIRECT ANY PRODUCT PRODUCED FROM HARVXTRA® ALFALFA WITH ROUNDUP READY® TECHNOLOGY SEED OR CROPS (INCLUDING HAY AND HAY PRODUCTS) ONLY TO UNITED STATES DOMESTIC USE. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Growers should refer to http://www.biotradestatus.com/ for any updated information on import country approvals. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Excellence Through Stewardship. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® crops contain genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate. Glyphosate herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Roundup Ready® is a registered trademark of Bayer Group, used under license by Forage Genetics International, LLC. HarvXtra® is a registered trademark of Forage Genetics International, LLC. HarvXtra® Alfalfa with Roundup Ready® Technology is enabled with Technology from The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc.

Escalate® and the Escalate logo are trademarks of Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.


Clovers are widely adapted legumes that improve forage production in several ways. They increase protein and mineral content of pastures, hay, and silage. Clovers can tolerate a wider range of soils and growing conditions than alfalfa. Most clovers can tolerate lower pH soils as well as poor drainage. Clovers mix well with any forage grasses, but can also be grown in pure stands. Clovers can be used for improving soil health, conservation, and honey production. The following section will help you place the

right clover on your farm.

CLOVERS

Suggested seeding rates for red clover seeded in a mixture or alone with single grass

MEDIUM RED CLOVERSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.

Approximate Seeds/lb. 227,000

Seeding Rate 10 - 12 lb./A. 2 - 6 lb./A.

Days to Germinate 7 - 12

Height at Maturity 24 in. - 36 in.

Length of Stand 1 - 4 Years

Reproduces By Seed

Pounds Per Bushel 60

Planting Dates Jan. - April, Aug. - Sept.

Main UsagePasture, Hay,

Pasture renovation, Soil improvement

Precaution Bloat potential

Species lb./A. of Medium Red Clover

Red Clover Alone 8 - 12

Timothy 4 - 6

Orchardgrass 4 - 6

Perennial Ryegrass 4 - 8

Smooth Bromegrass 6 - 8

Reed Canarygrass 6 - 8

Tall Fescue 4 - 6

CLOVERS 16

• Three to four year stand life

• Extremely high yielding with exceptional stand persistence

• Great disease package improves stand persistence

• Improves pastures with nitrogen production and improving protein content

Gallant Red clover is a modern, Midwest-bred red clover. It has been selected for high yield, stand persistence, and a strong disease package. The trait that leads to persistence is its unmatched black patch resistance. Gallant is also resistant to northern and southern anthracnose and is also resistant to powdery mildew. Gallant can produce high yields well into years three and four. It has been the leader in yield at The Ohio State University variety trials. Gallant Red clover is a real return on investment for top forage producers. Notice in the below data the tremendous yield and persistence (% stand) compared to other varieties.

Variety May 28 July 2 Sept. 8 2015 2014 2013 2013-14 % Stand Sept. 18, 2015

Gallant 1.95 1.16 1.14 4.45 6.43 2.91 13.53 83

RC0401* 1.82 0.87 0.98 3.63 6.24 3.08 12.93 66

FSG 402 1.76 0.80 0.73 3.18 6.26 2.98 12.53 69

PGI 44 1.76 0.82 0.72 3.25 6.14 2.91 12.34 71

Common Red 0.92 0.50 0.07 1.32 4.27 2.55 8.41 4

Mammoth Red 0.70 0.33 0.12 1.29 4.56 1.86 7.59 4

Mean 1.48 0.74 0.63 2.85 5.65 2.72 11.22 50

LSD 0.57 0.29 0.33 1.00 1.09 0.49 2.15 21.6

Prob > F <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001

CV 25.5 26.0 34.8 23.0 12.9 12.0 12.7 28.9

RED CLOVER VARIETY TRIALOhio, South Charleston, Sown 4/9/2013

*Variety tested using experimental seed that may not give performance identical to that of commercially available seed.

Establishment: Seeded with a Hege 3-point hitch drill with presswheels at 12 lm/A.Plot Size: 4 ft. by 20 ft.; 7 ft. alleys and borders; RCBD with four reps.

Soil type/analysis: Crosby silt loam, pH = 7, P = 48 lb./A., CEC = 12.7, O.M. = 1.8 (10/13)

GALLANT RED CLOVER

CLOVERS 17

ALSIKE CLOVERAdapted to the same general area as red clover. Alsike clover makes a very palatable, high-quality hay when planted with other clovers and grasses, especially timothy. Alsike produces high quality pasture and hay. It prefers a heavy, moist soil and will do better than other clovers on poorly drained acidic soils. Alsike clover does not do well in light, sandy soils.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 6.5

Soil Adoption Poorly drained, Medium fertility







Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Hay, Pasture

Precautions Bloat potential, Photo sensitivity, Not for

horses, Slow drying

CLOVERS 18

Crimson clover is an overwintering annual usually grown as a cover crop that is best seeded after wheat. When planting, be sure to allow six to eight weeks of growth before a freeze. Crimson clover can be grazed or hayed in the spring. This species is known for its fine, fibrous root system, shade tolerance, and quick establishment.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 4.8 - 8.2

Soil Adoption Adopts to wide variety, as long as soil is well drained



Seeding Rate 20 lb./A. 8 - 10 lb./A. Mix



Length of Stand Weak Biennial

Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Hay, Pasture, Soil

Precautions Bloat potential

CRIMSON CLOVER

• Improved crimson clover variety

• Earlier maturing than VNS crimson clover

• Can produce up to 140 lb./A. of nitrogen (N)

• Quick growing

• Reseeding variety

• Can reach 2.5 ft. in height

• Fine, fibrous root structure

• Available as coated or raw seed

DIXIEAU ROBIN

CLOVERS 19

• Fast growing, high yielding

• Great forage quality

• Very large leaves, up to 3 in. in optimal conditions

• Excellent regrowth

JUMBO II

The white clovers, Trifolium repens L, found in the U.S. are generally found in one of three different ecotypes. The smallest is wild white clover. Generally, this is a native clover. The common white clover found in yards and pastures, as well as White Dutch clover, are usually in the intermediate sized group. The largest white clovers are often called ladino clovers. Ladino clovers are usually used in pastures. White clovers grow on a wide range of soil pH, drainage, and topography. Ideally, it likes cool, moist growing conditions. It should be mixed with grasses to lower bloat potential. White clover can tolerate more grazing pressure than other clovers and frost seeds very well.

LADINO CLOVER

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.8 - 6.5

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 4 - 6 lb./A. 0.5 - 2 lb./A. Mix



Reproduces By Seed and Stolons


Planting Dates Feb. - April

Main Usage Hay, Conservation, Pasture, Wildlife

Precautions Bloat potential, Slow drying for hay

CLOVERS 20

WHITE CLOVERSSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 3 - 5 lb./A. 0.5 - 2 lb./A.




Reproduces By Seed and stolons


Planting Dates Feb. - April, Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Soil improvement, pasture, wildlife

Precaution Bloat hazard, Slow drying as hay

• Persistent, grazing tolerant for season-long production

• High stolon density

• Large leaves

• Has higher levels on nonstructural carbohydrates than other white clovers

• Commonly used in lawns as ground cover

• Great for use in plant nurseries between the rows

• Also works in pastures

• Small leaves, low growing

WHITE DUTCHLEGACY

CLOVERS 21

• Great companion with alfalfa to improve yield and forage quality

• Hollow stems help with quick hay drying

• Contains tannins that prevent bloat in livestock

• Adaptable across a wide range of soils

• Great for cover crop or a forage

• Can be seeded later in the fall than Crimson Clover at a lower seeding rate

• Works well with Cereal Rye

BALANSA CLOVERBERSEEM CLOVER

ANNUAL CLOVERS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5

Soil Adoption Moderate to well drained




Days to Germinate 7


Length of Stand 6 Months or Less

Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates April - Aug.

Main Usage Cover crops, Nurse crops, Pasture, Hay, Wildfire

CLOVERS 22

SWEET CLOVERSSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.5 - 7.5

Soil Adoption Wide






Length of Stand 2 Years

Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Soil improvement

Precaution Soybean stem nematode host, Not for hay or pasture

• Good food source for honey bees and beneficial predatory wasps

• Matures 10 to 14 days earlier than white blossom sweet clover

• Do not use for hay, pasture, or silage

• Good food source for honey bees

• Matures 10 to 14 days later than yellow blossom sweet clover

• Do not use for hay, pasture, or silage

WHITE BLOSSOMYELLOW BLOSSOM

CLOVERS 23

PLOWDOWN CLOVER MIXES

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 10 - 12 lb./A.




Planting Dates Jan. - May

Main Usage Soil improvement

Precaution Soybean stem nematode host, Not

for hay or pasture

• Can produce over 100 lb./A. of N for following crops

• Improves soil drainage and water percolation

• Increases organic matter; improves tilth and soil structure

• Works well frost seeded into wheat

• Great cover crop once the wheat is harvested

• 80/20 - 80% Mammoth red/20% Yellow blossom

• 60/40 - 60% Mammoth red/40% Yellow blossom

CLOVERS 24

BIRDSFOOT TREFOIL

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Poorly Drained, low pH



Seeding Rate 6 - 12 lb./A. 3 - 5 lb./A. Mix

Days to Germinate 14

Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.

Birdsfoot trefoil (BFT) is a perennial forage legume that is well adapted to the north central states. It can be used for both pasture and hay production. However, most of the hay production is as baleage or silage. BFT is well adapted to poorly-drained or acidic soils. It should be strongly considered in areas where alfalfa cannot be grown; however, it will not tolerate extended periods of standing water. BFT requires good management to reach its full potential. It requires a rest period of 40 to 45 days between harvests and some leaf area must be left to encourage regrowth. An ideal stubble height is 4.5 in. Another interesting trait of BFT is that livestock will not bloat on it, unlike other forage legumes. Trefoil also maintains forage quality from first bloom through seed production. This provides a longer harvest window. It can be slow to establish, but once established, it will provide for a lifetime. The different varieties of trefoil have different growth characteristics, which are important to variety selection.


Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates March - April, Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Pasture, Hay

Precautions Requires inoculant

• Prostrate growth

• Late maturing, great for pasture

• Very fine stemmed

• Tolerates wet soil very well

EMPIRE

CLOVERS 25

CROWN VETCH

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 10 - 25 lb./A.5 - 10 lb./A. Mix

Days to Germinate 14+


• Good legume for soil conservation

• Grows in low fertility, low pH areas

• Low maintenance once established

• Can become invasive if left uncontrolled

• Not available for sale in Indiana

Length of Stand Long


Reproduces By Seed, Rhizome


Main Usage Ground cover, Stabilization

Precaution Invasive, Must inoculate, Not intended for

animal consumption

CLOVERS 26

HAIRY VETCHSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2

Soil Adoption Well drained, High fertility








Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Cover crop

Precaution Normally contains hard seed and can emerge in

the future

• Improved variety of hairy vetch

• Excellent winterhardiness

• Can produce 60-120 lb./A. of N

• Best fall seeded

VALLANA

• Low growing cover crop hairy vetch

• Great N producer

• Establishes quickly and covers the ground

AMOREIRAS

CLOVERS 27

KOREAN LESPEDEZAKorean lespedeza is commonly used for wildlife food and cover, forage, cover or nurse crop, as well as temporary cover for erosion. Korean lespedeza is the earliest germinating of the annual lespedezas, providing the earliest grazing of any lespedezas. It should be grazed or cut when it reaches the half bloom stage. All harvesting methods should leave a 3 in. stubble. It is a reseeding annual that reaches full bloom in late summer when the growth rate rapidly declines. The reason for its popularity is due to what it can do on poor soils. It will grow well on acidic soils with low fertility and can survive both drought and flood. It is a good companion with bunch type grasses, such as timothy, orchardgrass, and tall fescue. It provides much needed summer grazing when cool-season grasses are dramatically slower at biomass production. As with all legumes, it is important to inoculate with the correct species of rhizobial bacteria.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2





Days to Germinate 7

• Annual legume mostly used for wildlife food plots

• Can be used as a forage, temporary ground cover, or a cover crop

• Grows well on acidic, low fertility soils

• Matches with bunch grasses such as orchardgrass, timothy, and tall fescue



Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Silage

CLOVERS 28

WINTER PEASSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide range of soils

Planting Depth 1/2 in. - 1 in.





Length of Stand Annual


Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Green manure plowdown

• Cold tolerant, viney, annual legume

• Great for cover crop and wildlife plots

• Can produce 60 to 120 lb./A. N and yield 1 to 2 ton/A. forage yield

• Needs to be inoculated and drilled

• Large fan root structure adds organic matter to soil

• Long vined winter forage pea

• Higher yielding than Austrian winter peas

• Need to be inoculated and drilled

• Cold tolerant

SURVIVORAUSTRIAN WINTER PEAS

CLOVERS 29

SPRING PEASSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0









Reproduces By Seed



• Improved field pea, leafier

• Spring-planted field pea

• Also used as a cover crop

• Need to be inoculated and drilled

STOCKADE

CLOVERS 30

COWPEAS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0






• Warm season annual legume similar to soybeans

• Grows well in dry, hot conditions

• Mix with sorghum sudangrass for pasture or silage

• One harvest crop

• Inoculate to enhance N production

• Produces 70 – 150 lb./A.

• Great wildlife crop




Reproduces By Seed



CLOVERS 31

Forage grasses are a staple in forage based livestock production. Grasses fit a wide range of soils, fertility, and livestock. They provide energy as well as the dietary fiber needed by livestock. Grasses need supplemental N to reach their full yield potential. This can be achieved with commercial fertilizer or the addition of a legume. Grass can increase yields in a legume forage stand. It is important to match

the forage grass to your farm and livestock situation.

FORAGE GRASSES

ORCHARDGRASS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.8 - 8.2

Soil Adoption Well drained



Seeding Rate 10 - 15 lb./A. 2 - 5 lb./A. Mix 7 - 10


• Late maturity, matches well with alfalfa and other legumes

• Excellent disease package, especially resistant to leaf rust

• Ideal for hay or pasture production

• Best summer performance of any orchardgrass

PROFIT

Orchardgrass is a bunch grass that exhibits reproductive growth of 2 ft. 4 ft. in height and vegetative growth from 6 in. to 18 in. It is well adapted to most Midwestern farms because of its high yield, drought tolerance, shade tolerance, and winterhardiness. It matches well with most forage legumes, such as alfalfa, red clover, and birdsfoot trefoil. Orchardgrass can produce high quality, high-yielding feed if harvested in a timely fashion (ideally late boot stage to early bloom). If it is harvested in seed production, the forage quality drops rapidly.




Reproduces By Seed



FORAGE GRASSES 33

FORAGE TALL FESCUESTall fescue is a relatively deep-rooted bunch grass found throughout much of the U.S. It can tolerate a wide range of soils and fertility. It matches well with forage legumes, especially red and ladino clover. KY-31 tall fescue makes up 75% of all tall fescue grown. Under proper management it can be a productive and profitable grass. However, with new low endophyte varieties, other tall fescues should be considered. The endophyte found in KY-31 is a fungus that grows between the plant cells and makes it tough, but it also reduces animal performance and causes animal health problems in extreme cases. KY-31 is not recommended for horses. All other low endophyte or friendly endophyte tall fescues are safe for horses or livestock.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.0 - 8.0

Soil Adoption Wide, Dry-Wet






Length of Stand 10+ Years

Reproduces By Seed, Short Rhizomes



Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Stockpilingendophyte fungus

Precautions Endophyte fungus, KY-31 not recommended

for grazing animals

• Low endophyte tall fescue

• Matures about a week earlier than KY-31

• Lowest lignin tall fescue available

• Great for hay or pasture

• Endophyte infected tall fescue

• Extremely drought tolerant and tough

• Good for waterways and other conservation practices

• Do not graze or feed

KENTUCKY - 31BULL TALL FESCUE

FORAGE GRASSES 34

• Long-lived sod forming forage grass

• Late maturing grass that matches well with birdsfoot trefoil

• Maintains forage quality up to seed production

Smooth bromegrass is a sod forming, long-lived perennial forage grass. It does well in a 2- to 3-cut system, and is very winterhardy and drought tolerant. It spreads by seed and rhizomes. It mixes well with birdsfoot trefoil and clovers. Smooth bromegrass makes deep blue green, soft hay. It is also found in many northern pastures. It is a large chaffy seed that may cause problems going through the seed box of a grain drill.

SMOOTH BROMEGRASS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5








Reproduces By Seed, Rhizomes




Precautions Endophyte fungus, KY-31 not recommended

for grazing animals

FORAGE GRASSES 35

Meadow bromegrass is a cool-season perennial grass with short rhizomes. It is very palatable to all types of livestock because of its large, soft leaves. It has excellent winterhardiness with moderate tolerance to shade. It can be grown for hay or pasture and mixes well with legumes such as alfalfa.

MEADOW BROMEGRASS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5

Soil Adoption Well drained, Fertile





• Tremendous growth during cool, moist conditions

• Early spring growth

• Top-yielding with rapid regrowth

MACBETH MEADOW BROME







FORAGE GRASSES 36

Meadow fescue is a grass that was introduced to the U.S. and Canada in the early 1800’s. Meadow fescue works well in managed intensive grazing situations and is a good choice for hay production where “winter kill” is an issue. Meadow fescue performs well under drier conditions for making hay or silage. Although meadow fescues do contain endophytes, they are at very low levels, and show no signs of having detrimental effects on livestock. Plant at a rate of two to three pounds per acre with alfalfa.

MEADOW FESCUES

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2





Days to Germinate 7


Length of Stand 3 -7 Years

Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Silage

• Extremely winterhardy

• Well fit to rotational grazing

• Suitable for hay and grazing

PREVAL MEADOW FESCUE

FORAGE GRASSES 37

Annual ryegrass is quick establishing and capable of producing high forage yields in a short period of time. It is a very competitive winter annual cool-season grass that works well as a cover crop, forage, and erosion control. Beck’s has gone to great lengths to ensure you will be provided with top winterhardy varieties of annual ryegrass. Do not use common varieties of annual ryegrass as a cover crop because they may not have adequate winterhardiness, may not have an adequate disease package, or may not break dormancy evenly in the spring.

ANNUAL RYEGRASS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.6 - 6.2

Soil Adoption Well to moderately drained, Medium to high fertility







Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates Feb. - May, Aug. - Oct.

Main Usage Pasture, Winter Cover Crop

Precautions Can be considered invasive


• Well fit to rotational grazing

• Excellent cover crop - maximum growth of 18 in.

• Dual purpose cover crop and forage

• Deep rooted with great winterhardiness

• High yielding with improved forage quality

• Great disease resistance package

CENTURIONWINTERHAWK

FORAGE GRASSES 38

Italian ryegrass is a short rotation ryegrass. During the seeding year the plant remains vegetative and will not produce seed heads. Once it overwinters, it will produce a seed head. It can be used as a spring forage crop, a double crop option, or as a cover crop. It can also be used to thicken an older alfalfa stand. Requires 50 lb./A, of N for first harvest and an additional 30 to 50 lb./A. for each subsequent harvest.

ITALIAN RYEGRASS

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.6 - 6.2

Soil Adoption Well-mod-well drained, Medium to high fertility







Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Pasture, Green chop, Haylage

• Rapid establishment and growth

• High-quality, high-yielding forage

• Very palatable

• Start grazing at 10 in. to 12 in. in height and graze to 3 in. to 4 in. in height

FEAST II ITALIAN RYEGRASS

FORAGE GRASSES 39

PERENNIAL RYEGRASSPerennial ryegrass is a high-quality, high sugar content, cool-season grass. It is not as persistent as other forage grasses such as orchardgrass. It is not as winterhardy as smooth bromegrass. It performs very well under intensive grazing conditions and should be on a 21 to 25 day rotation. In general, perennial ryegrass needs to be grazed, chopped, or wet wrapped. It is a slow drying hay crop due to its high moisture content and thick, waxy cuticle.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.6 - 6.2

Soil Adoption Wide







Reproduces By Seed




• Late maturing tetraploid variety

• Profuse tillering and rapid regrowth

• Less sensitive to drought and heat than many other varieties

POWER PERENNIAL RYEGRASS

FORAGE GRASSES 40

FESTULOLIUMFestuloliums are a hybrid between a ryegrass (either annual, Italian, or perennial) and meadow fescue or tall fescue. It is a high sugar content perennial that is great for grazing or hay production. Festuloliums exhibit yields higher than perennial ryegrass, similar forage quality, and high disease resistance, persistence, and winterhardiness.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.5








Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Grazing, Silage

• Cross between Italian ryegrass and meadow fescue

• Well suited for intermediate and late cutting

• Vigorous spring growth with rapid regrowth after harvest

• Works well during tough weather conditions

• Cross between tetraploid perennial ryegrass and a meadow fescue

• Winterhardiness and persistence of a meadow fescue

• Forage quality of a perennial ryegrass

• Does not tolerate hot, dry conditions

DUOPERSEUS

FORAGE GRASSES 41

TIMOTHYTimothy is the oldest cultivated forage grass in North America. It is highly palatable as well as winterhardy. It performs best in cool, moist conditions. Timothy is well known and preferred in the horse market. It matches well with clovers or birdsfoot trefoil due to its late maturity. The following varieties offered are ranked in the order of maturity.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide


Approximate Seeds/lb. 1,200,000





Reproduces By Seed




• Top of the line for yield and forage quality

• Matures three to five days earlier than Climax

• Maturity matches well with alfalfa

KOOTENAI TIMOTHY

FORAGE GRASSES 42

FORAGE KY BLUEGRASSKentucky bluegrass has been long utilized in pastures and hay fields in the Midwest. It should be mixed with other grasses. It is high in forage quality, matures early in the season, and tolerates close grazing.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0




Seeding Rate 15 lb./A.2 - 10 lb./A. Mix








• Forage type bluegrass with wide leaves and relatively tall growth

• Well adapted for use in pasture

• Grows well in cooler weather

• Should be mixed with other forage grasses

• Very quick establishment

• Early maturing

• Good persistence and winterhardiness

• Tall growth for a bluegrass

BALINGINGER

FORAGE GRASSES 43

REED CANARYGRASSReed canarygrass is a tall sod forming grass that exhibits great tolerance to wet and flooded conditions, as well as excellent drought tolerance. It is of medium palatability and can quickly drop in forage quality as it matures. Reed canarygrass requires good management as to not allow it to spread to areas where it is undesired. Improved varieties are low in alkaloids, which in turn improves forage quality and intake. Reed canarygrass generally requires about 40 lb./A. of N per ton of forage. Not available for sale in Indiana.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 8.2

Soil Adoption Wide, Dry to very wet





Height at Maturity 3 in. - 8 in





Main Usage Hay, Conservation, Pasture on wet ground

Precautions Can be considered invasive

• Great seedling vigor

• Low alkaloid improves animal performance

• Disease resistant

• Flood and drought tolerant

RIVAL

FORAGE GRASSES 44

FORAGE BLENDSBeck’s provides the finest forage seed varieties available on the market for grazing tolerance, leaf disease and drought tolerance, yield, and quality. All of the blends in our product line have been developed and tested for forage quality, yield, and persistence. We are always updating our mixes with the best

possible ingredients to ensure farmers are receiving the best products for their acres.

• 45% Leafguard Alfalfa

• 32% Gallant Medium Red

• All top producing, forage researched, value added varieties — no cheap fillers

• Balanced alfalfa/clover/grass mix for flexible use as hay or pasture

• Can be used for a legume base to add selected forage grasses for permanent pasture

• Only elite varieties

BECK’S ULTIMATE HAY BLEND• 12% Timothy

• 11% Orchardgrass

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates April - May, Aug.

Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Baleage

FORAGE BLENDS 46

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed



• 65% Fierce Alflafa


• 13% Timothy

• Balanced blend of alfalfa and grasses for quality hay

• Quality grasses paired with an alfalfa bred for tough soils

• An excellent option for horses

BECK’S PREMIUM HAY BLEND

FORAGE BLENDS 47

• 50% Bronson Tall Fescue

• 8.5% Gallant Red Clover

• Formulated for top animal production for beef producers

• Works well for hay or grazing

• Can be stockpiled

• Soft, highly palatable fescues

BECK’S CATTLE GRAZER BLEND• 40% STF-43 Tall Fescue

• 1.5% Jumbo II Ladino Clover

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed



FORAGE BLENDS 48


• 20% Festolium

• 20% Perennial Ryegras


• Can be baled or grazed

• Only elite varieties

• A mix of highly palatable varieties

BECK’S PASTURE BLEND• 10% Timothy

• 10% Forage KY Bluegrass

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed



FORAGE BLENDS 49

• 30% Perennial Ryegrass

• 25% Meadow Fescue



• Can be baled or grazed

• A mix of highly palatable grasses

BECK’S ALL GRASS FORAGE BLEND• 15% Meadow Bromegrass

• 10% Timothy

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Pasture, Baleage

FORAGE BLENDS 50

• 45% Bull Tall Fescue

• 45% Perennial Ryegrams

• 10% Creeping Red Fescue

• Produces under tough hot, dry conditions

• Outstanding winterhardiness

BECK’S WATER - WAY BLEND

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide







Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Waterways

FORAGE BLENDS 51

• 70% Elevator Triticale

• 30% Winterhawk Annual Ryegrass

• Fast forage. Ready in 60 to 80 days

• Responds well to nitrogen/manure applications

• For haylage/silage/green-chop

• High carbohydrates

• High protein

TRITICALE / ANNUAL RYEGRASS BLEND

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 120 lb./A. 50 lb./A. Nurse Crop



Length of Stand 1 Cut

Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates March - April, Aug.

Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse Crop

FORAGE BLENDS 52

• 50% Elevator Spring Triticale

• 50% Stockade Forage Peas

• Very versatile

• 60 days from emergence to harvest; best when triticale is in the boot stage

• High-quality haylage for improved animal performance

• Great nurse crop for a forage seeding

• Fits well before or after a summer annual crop

• Tolerates frost or light freeze

TRITICALE / PEA BLEND

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide

Planting Depth 1 in.

Approximate Seeds/lb. 8,000 - 9,000

Seeding Rate 100 lb./A. 70 lb./A. Nurse crop




Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse crop

FORAGE BLENDS 53

• 50% Haywire Forage Oats

• 50% Stockade Forage Peas

• 60 days from emergence to harvest; best when oats are in the boot stage

• High-quality haylage

• Great nurse crop for a forage seeding

• Fits well before or after a summer annual crop

• Tolerates frost or light freeze

• Spectacular yield and quality with Haywire Oats

OAT / PEA BLEND

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide

Planting Depth 1 in.


Seeding Rate 120 lb./A. 70 lb./A. Nurse crop




Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse crop

FORAGE BLENDS 54

Summer annuals have become more than just an emergency forage crop to many producers. Summer annuals can be planted as a primary crop or a double crop. They exhibit rapid growth in hot, humid conditions and can yield two to six tons per acre. Planting can occur once the soil temperature reaches 62°F. Summer annuals require N fertilization, usually 1 lb./A. of N per day of growth. These crops are also more water efficient and can be productive when cool season crops are slowing down due to heat

and dry weather. Strongly consider making them part of your forage crop rotation.

SUMMER ANNUALS

SORGHUM SUDANGRASSSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide, 60°F or warmer soil temperature

Planting Depth 3/4 in. - 1 1/4 in.



Days to Germinate 7



Reproduces By Sterile


Planting Dates May - July

Main Usage Green chop, Hay, Silage

SUMMER ANNUALS 56

One of the first BMR summer annual forage grasses that can outyield many non-BMR hybrids. Sweet six also has a dry stalk gene which improves the dry down timing. Often times this hybrid will carry 8% to 10% lower moisture in the boot stage. Sweet six tillers profusely producing fine sweet stems which make it highly palatable. The digestibility of this hybrid is increased by 20%, which is proven by a reduciton in lignin with the BMR 6 gene. This provides increased daily gain in milk or beef production substantially. This hybrid is more economical to plant than the sudan x sudan hybrids. It produces more tonnage, has fine stems, and better overall quality.

Disease/Insect/Nematode Ratings

Agronomic Traits

Anthracnose R

Downy Mildew MR

Early Seeding Vigor Excellent

Recovery After Cutting Very good

Maturity 50 - 55 Days to boot

Harvest 40 -50 in. or in the early boot stage

Uniformity Good

Plant Color Purple

Midrib Type Brown

Adaptation Ratings

Photoperiod Insensitive

Soil Temperature Warm (62°F)

Water Requirement Low

Crop Use Information

Planting Rates

Life Cycle Annual

Ease of Establishment Good

Drought Stress Good

Minimum pH Excellent

Hay Excellent

Silage/Greenchop Excellent

Rotational Grazing Excellent


Digestibility Excellent

Palatability Excellent

Fertilizer 1 - 1.25 Units N per growing day

First Cutting 40 - 50 Days

Second Cutting 25 - 30 Days

Double Cropping Excellent

Seeds per Pound 15,000 - 18,000

Drilled 20 - 35 (Dryland)45 - 60 (Irrigated)

Broadcast 25 - 40 (Dryland)50 - 65 (Irrigated)

SWEET SIX BMR

SUMMER ANNUALS 57

• 55 to 60 days to first harvest

• 30 to 60 days between subsequent harvests

• Broad harvest window

• BMR 6 gene reduces lignin content

• Photoperiod sensitive, will not head out until day length is < 12 h 17 m

• Maintains forage quality throughout the growing season

• Fits as a tool to manage weather risks with delayed harvests

• Seed at 35 to 50 lb./A.; higher rates reduce stem diameter

• Graze at 24 in. to 30 in.; harvest at 30 in. to 50 in.

SWEET - FOREVER BMR

Adaption Ratings

Disease/Insect/Nematode Ratings

Photosynthetic Type Warm Season

Photoperiod Sensitive

Soil Temperature Warm (62°F)

Water Requirements Very Low

Anthracnose R

Downy Mildew R

Crop Use Information

Life Cycle Annual

Ease of Establishment Good

Drought Stress Excellent

Minimum pH 6.0

Low pH Tolerance Moderate

Hay Excellent

Silage Excellent

Continuous Grazing Excellent


Palatability Outstanding

Digestibility Excellent

Fertilizer 1 - 1.25 Units N per growing day

Harvest 40 - 84 in.

Agronomic Traits

Early Seedling Vigor Excellent

Growth Habit Upright

Recovery After Cutting Excellent

Photoperiod Sensitive

Maturity 12 hours 20 minutes or less of day length

Harvest 40 - 84 in.

Uniformity Excellent

Plant Color Purple

Midrib Type BMR /Juicy-sweet

SUMMER ANNUALS 58

FORAGE SORGHUMForage sorghum has made vast improvements in forage quality and yield over the last decade. Beck’s has selected varieties fit to the Midwest either as a primary forage crop or as a double crop option. Forage sorghums can be managed one of two ways. The first is as a conventional direct chop silage crop. The other option is to mow the forage sorghum in the early boot stage, wilt it, and chop or wet wrap it. When the plants regrow they can be mowed in the early boot stage again. This offers producers a higher-yielding, higher-quality option with less harvests than a sorghum sudangrass hybrid. Also, this allows forage sorghum to be grown in a shorter than normal growing season if extra forage is needed. Follow seeding rates closely, as over planting the recommended seeding rates can cause lodging.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide, 60°F or warmer

Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in.


Seeding Rate 60 - 80,000 lb./A.20 in. - 30 in. Rows

Days to Germinate 7



Reproduces By Sterile



Main Usage Hay, Silage

Precautions Prussic acid, Nitrate poisoning

• BMR 6, 95 days to soft dough stage hybrid

• Brachytic dwarf gene keeps maximum height at 6 ft. to 7 ft. tall

• Very large leaves that canopy quickly

• Can yield 15 to 25 tons/A.

• Seed at 45,000 – 75,000 seeds/A. in 20 in. to 30 in. rows

SILO - PRO BRACHYTIC DWARF BMR

SUMMER ANNUALS 59

PEARL MILLETSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.5


Planting Depth 1/2 in.





Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Hay, Graze

SUMMER ANNUALS 60

GRAIN SORGHUM / MILOWorldwide, sorghum is a food grain for humans. In the U.S., sorghum is used primarily as a feed grain for livestock. Grain sorghum types are relatively short growing (less than 6 ft.) and provide moderate yields when harvested as grain. Leaf blades are wavy with a yellow midrib. Heads are bearded or awned, compact, and oval in shape. Seeds are large, pale pink to cream in color. Plants tend to be more tolerant to heat and drought. Feed value of grain sorghum is similar to corn. Grain sorghum can also make a great, simple spring or summer food plot for deer. It is a great choice for plots where high Whitetail deer volumes prevent other grain crops from making it through the summer.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 6.5




Seeding Rate 4 - 10 lb./A

Days to Germinate 7



Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates May - Aug.

Main Usage Wildlife, Grain

Precautions Prussic acid, Nitrate poisoning

SUMMER ANNUALS 61

M6313Beck M6313 milo is an early-medium maturity hybrid with outstanding yield potential and is broadly adaptable across a wide range of growing conditions.

Planting Traits Positioning and Adaptability

RM - Days to flowering 63

Yield for maturity 9

Yield under drought 7

Seedling vigor 7

Stalk strength 8

Root strength 7

Head exertion 7

Test weight 7

Plant height 7

Sugarcane aphid 9

Grain color Bronze

Heavy clay soils 7

Irrigation 9

No-till 8

Drought prone soils 7

Dryland 8

• Early-medium maturity hybrid with outstanding yield

• Sugarcane aphid tolerance

• Excellent dryland option

• Stong standibility

9 = Excellent 5 = Poor

SUMMER ANNUALS 62

M6885Beck M6885 milo is a medium-late maturity hybrid with excellent yield potential and outperforms in dryland or irrigated environments.

Planting Traits Positioning and Adaptability

RM - Days to flowering 68

Yield for maturity 9

Yield under drought 8

Seedling vigor 7

Stalk strength 8

Root strength 7

Head exertion 8

Test weight 8

Plant height 8

Sugarcane aphid 9

Grain color Bronze

Heavy clay soils 7

Irrigation 9

No-till 6

Drought prone soils 7

Dryland 8

• Medium-late maturity hybrid with excellent yield potential

• Sugarcane aphid tolerance

• Drought tolerant; outperforms in dryland or irrigated environments

• Excellent stalk strength

9 = Excellent 5 = Poor

SUMMER ANNUALS 63

PLANTING MILO / GRAIN SORGHUM

HERBICIDE SITE OF ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS

ACTIVE INGREDIENT FORMULATED PRODUCT

S-Metolachlor + Atrazine (U) 15+5

sandy loam: do not use silt loam: 0.95-1.5 lb.

silty clay loam: 0.95-1.5 lb.

Bicep II Magnum® (u)sandy loam: do not use silt loam: 1.3-2.1 qts.

silty clay loam: 1.3-2.1 qts.

Use 1.3 to 2 qt./A. on soil with OM less than 1%. Controls most annual grasses and many broadleaf

weeds. Do not use unless your seed has been treated with Concep® seed safener.

S-Metolachlor 15sandy loam: 0.96 to 1.27 lbs.

silt loam: 1.27-1.43 lbsilty clay loam: 1.27-1.6 lb.

Dual II Magnum®

sandy loam: 1-1.33 pts.silt loam: 1.33-1.5 pts.

silty clay loam: 1.33-1.67 pts.

Recommended on overflow areas or fields where variable soil textures prevent pre-emergence

application of atrazine. Will control most annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds. Use only

with Concep® or Screen safener seed. Use post-emergence herbicide for broadleaf weed control.

S-Metolachlor + Glyphosate + Mesotrione

15+9+27 2.0-2.2 lb. Halex® GT3.6-4 pts./A. Can be used pre-plant or pre-emergence.

S-Metolachlor + Mesotrione + Atrazine (U)

15+27+5 2.78 lb. Lexar® EZ (u)3 qts.

Cannot be used on coarse textured soils. Applying Lexar® EZ less than 7 days before sorghum planting

will increase the risk of crop injury, especially if irrigation or rainfall is received following the

application. Applying Lexar EZ more than 7 days (but not more than 21) prior to sorghum planting will reduce the risk of crop injury. Use only with

Concep® safened seed.

PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDES FOR GRAIN SORGHUM*

Beck’s offers a full lineup of milo varieties adapted for production in the Midwest.

Yield – Goals in the central Midwest range from 70 to 120 Bu./A. Yields can be as high as 150 Bu./A. in good conditions.

Planting Population – Final stand is 60,000 to 100,000 plants/A. Population will be lower on poor ground and higher in better soils. Most milo has a 75% to 85% emergence rate, making planting population about 86,000 to 140,000 plants/A.

Planting Depth – 1 to 1.5 inches deep.

Row Spacing – Can be planted in narrow 15 in. rows or 30 in. rows. Rows narrower than 30 in. will canopy earlier and conserve moisture while helping to control weeds. Later plantings perform better in rows narrower than 30 in.

Fertility – P and K requirements of milo are similar to those on corn.

• Apply 1.2 lb. of N/Bu. of expected yield to milo following corn. • Following soybeans, apply 1lb. of N/Bu. of expected yield on milo. • Apply 30% to 50% of total N if you plan to put down at planting and sidedress the remaining N between the V3

and V6 growth stage.

Fertility can be sensitive to pop-up starters. A 2 x 2 starter fertilizer is sufficient.

Weed Control – All Beck’s varieties are safened for dual application and treated with fungicides. Early-season weed control is critical to achieve high yields.

SUMMER ANNUALS 64

Individual Results May Vary. Always Read and Follow Label Directions.

*Post-emergence treatments may be required to control cocklebur, sicklepod, or other hard-to-control broadleaf weeds. (u) Restricted Use Pesticide - Refer to label for precautions to be taken during landling and application.

PLANTING MILO / GRAIN SORGHUMHERBICIDE SITE OF

ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS


Dimethenamid + Atrazine (u) 15+5

sandy loam: do not use silt loam: 1.9-2.5 lb.

silty clay loam: 1.9-2.5 lb.

Guardsman Max® (u)sandy loam: do not use

silt loam: 1.5-2 qts.silty clay loam: 1.5-2 qts.

Do not use on soils containing less than 1% organic matter. Controls most annual grasses and

many broadleaf weeds. Do not use unless your seed has been treated with Concep® or Screen

seed safener.

Saflufenacil 14 0.067 lb. Sharpen® SG3 oz.

Before applying Sharpen to sorghum, verify with your local seed representative the

selectivity of Sharpen on your hybrid to help avoid potential injury.

Saflufenacil + Dimethenamid-P 14+15 0.218-0.436 lb. Verdict® 5.57 EC

5-10 oz.

Apply pre-plant or before grain sorghum that has been treated with an approved chloroacetamide seed safener such as Concep® III. Tank mix with

glyphosate or paraquat for best burndown results.

Acetochlor 15 1.1-1.65 lb. Warrant® 1.5-2.25 qts.

Apply only to sorghum planted with seed that has been properly treated with seed protectant

or safener.

Carfenrazone-Ethyl 14 0.008 lb. Aim®

0.5 oz.

Apply overtop grain sorghum up to the 6-leaf growth stage to control velvetleaf, black

nightshade, common lambsquarters and small ivyleaf and pitted morningglory. Excellent on

large velvetleaf. Always add nonionic surgactant at 1 qt./100 gal. or spray mix. May be tank

mixed with atrazine, Banvel®, Clarity®, or other herbicides to expand weed spectrum. See label.

Atrazine (u)* 5 2 lb.Aatrex®

2 qts. 4L2.2 lb. Nine-0

Apply overtop before weeds exceed 1.5 in. in height. Grain sorghum should be fully emerged.

Refer to the label for directions on applying in combination with emulsifiable oil. Do not

apply during cloudy weather. Post-emergence applications must be made before crop exceeds

12 in. tall.

Bentazon 6 0.75-1.0 lb. Basagran®

1.5-2 pts.Apply overtop grain sorghum to control most

broadleaf weeds less than 4 in. tall. Refer to label for specific weed sizes.

Bromoxynil 6 0.25-0.38 lb. Buctril 4E0.5-0.75 pts.

Apply overtop grain sorghum from the 3-leaf stage to a 12 in. height to control most broadleaf

weeds in the 2- to 4-leaf stage of growth. Less drift potential than Banvel® or 2, 4-D. Use 10 or

more gallons of water/A.

Dicamba 4 0.125-0.25 lb. Banvel®0.25-0.5 pts.

Apply overtop grain sorghum from emergence to 8 in. tall. Use drop nozzles to apply to row

middles and prevent spraying into the crop whorl when sorghum is between 8 and 15 in. tall. Do

not apply by air. Use caution to prevent drift and injury to sensitive crops.

SUMMER ANNUALS 65



PLANTING MILO / GRAIN SORGHUM

Diseases + Pests – Milo is suseptable to many of the same diseases and insects as corn. Scouting will be important to know if fungicides need to be applied. Scout regularly for signs of sugarcane aphid infestation like honeydew on the leaves and secondary plant pathogen infections. Sugarcane aphids can have a serious impact on yield. Harvesting – Milo can be harvested with a grain table and is slow to dry after reaching maturity. Milo reaches physiological maturity at 30% moisture, but, at moistures higher than 25%, the seeds are too soft to withstand threshing. Early harvesting is advisable due to our more humid conditions and the potential for mold development.

• 14% moisture is considered dry. • 12% moisture is needed for long term storage.

Milo plants do not die until they are frost killed. Therefore, green trash is a concern in combing and storing. Cleaning milo before and after drying is recommended for storage and reducing fire risk during drying. Use caution when drying milo. Additional Resources –https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/AE/AE-82-W.htmlhttps://www.agry.purdue.edu/ext/corn/news/timeless/LatePlantGrainSorghum.html

HERBICIDE SITE OF ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS


Pyrasulfotole + Bromoxynil 27+6 0.2-0.25 lb. Huskie®

12.8-16 oz.Apply overtop grain sorghum between 3-leaf stage

of growth and up to 12 in.

Prosulfuron 2 0.023-0.035 lb. Peak® 75WG0.5-0.75 oz.

Soybeans can be planted 10 months after a peak application. Refer to label for other zone

designations.

Halosulfuron 2 0.32-0.047 lb. Permit® 75WSG0.67-1 oz.

Good option for broadleaf weed control where adjacent sensitive crops such as cotton or soybean

prevent application of 2, 4-D or Banvel®. Apply overtop from the 2 leaf through layby stage of growth. Use 0.67 oz. to control cocklebur, small pigweed, common ragweed, and velvetleaf. Use 1 oz. to control yellow nutsedge. Add nonionic surfactant at 1 to 2 qt./100 gal. of spray mix.

2, 4-D 4 0.25-0.5 lb. 2, 4-D0.5-1 pt.

Apply overtop grain sorghum that is 6 in. to 10 in. tall to control most broadleaf weeds. Use drop

nozzles if sorghum is more than 10 in. tall.

University of Tennessee

SUMMER ANNUALS 66

PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDES FOR GRAIN SORGHUM*



GERMAN FOXTAIL MILLETSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0







Reproduces By Seed



Main Usage Hay, Graze

• Fast maturing summer annual grass

• One cut harvest available 60 days after emergence

• Very low water use

• Great for wildlife

GERMAN FOXTAIL MILLET

SUMMER ANNUALS 67

JAPANESE MILLETSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 6.5

Soil Adoption Well suited for areas with wet conditions



Seeding Rate 15 - 30 lb./A.9 - 12 lb./A. mix




Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates May - June

Main Usage Wildlife, Food plots

• Most rapid growth millet; 45 days to seed production

• Likes wetter, muddy areas

• Great for waterfowl and other wildlife

• Not recommended for hay or silage because of its coarse, unpalatable characteristics

JAPANESE MILLET

SUMMER ANNUALS 68

TEFF GRASSSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0







Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Hay, Silage, Grazing after one cut

• Fine stemmed, leafy summer annual grass that exhibits rapid growth

• Potential to produce 1.5 to 2.5 ton/A. in 45 to 55 days

• Harvest regrowth every 30 to 45 days

• Best suited for dry hay production, especially the horse market

SUMMER DELITE TEFF GRASS

SUMMER ANNUALS 69

BUCKWHEATSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.0 - 6.5








Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates June - Aug.

Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Grain

• Rapid growing broadleaf small grain

• Will flower in 35 to 45 days

• Small tap root system

• Great for mineralizing phosphorous (P) and sulfur (S) from the soil

BUCKWHEAT

SUMMER ANNUALS 70

Cereal grains are an important part of modern agriculture, whether it is for grain, forage, or a cover crop. Cereal grains are also used as a nurse crop in newly seeded hay fields and pastures. They fit into

a short rotation and can tolerate cooler temperatures than other crops.

CEREAL GRAINS

VNS OATS• Spring or fall seed

• Grain 64 lb./A. (2 bu./A.)

• Forage 100 lb./A. (3 bu./A.), approximately 55 to 60 days to late boot stage

• Nurse crop 32 lb./A. (1 bu./A.)

• Cover crop 15 to 50 bu./A.

• Freeze at 20 to 22°F

• VNS (Variety not stated)

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates

March - April (Forage/Grain production),

Aug. - Oct. (Cover crop or forage)

Main Usage Cereal grain, Nurse crop, Cover crop, Forage crop

• High-yielding, high-quality forage oat

• About 58 days to boot stage

• Excellent standability

• Lead 2014 Pennsylvania trial in forage quality

HAYWIRE

• Dual purpose grain/forage oat

• Great as a cover crop

• Good lodging resistance

• Good yields and straw production

JERRY

CEREAL GRAINS 72

BARLEYSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0





Days to Germinate 7



Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates March - May, Sept. - Oct.

Main Usage Grain, Forage

• Six-rowed, short awned barley


• Winter barley needs to be seeded early fall

• Early to mature in the spring, about two weeks before wheat

VALOR (WINTER BARLEY)

CEREAL GRAINS 73

VNS CEREAL RYE / WINTER RYESeeding Information

Soil pH 5.0 - 7.0








Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates Sept. - Nov.

Main Usage Grazing, Green manure, Silage, Cover crop

• High-yielding fall seeded cover crop or forage

• Will grow up to 6 ft. tall

• Early to mature in the spring

• Harvest in the boot stage for optimal quality

• Graze in vegetative stage for high quality pasture


VNS WINTER RYE

CEREAL GRAINS 74

• High-yielding spring seeded forage

• Harvest in the boot stage for optimal quality

• Graze in vegetative stage for high quality pasture

SPRING TRITICAL

TRITICALE• Hybrid between wheat and cereal rye

• Slightly improved forage quality as compared to cereal rye

• Matures about two weeks later than cereal rye, but two weeks before wheat

• Tillers well with a high leaf/stem ratio

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide





Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 4 ft. (Spring)5 ft. - 7 ft. (Fall)


Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates March - April, Sept. - Oct.

Main Usage Grazing, Hay, Silage


• Superior straw strength

• High forage yield

• Bearded; great for green chop

WINTER TRITICAL

CEREAL GRAINS 75

SPELTSeeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0



Approximate Seeds/lb. 14,000 Dehulled


Days to Germinate 7



Reproduces By Seed


Planting Dates Sept. - Oct.

Main Usage Grain

CEREAL GRAINS 76

Cover Crops are an investment in the future of the agronomic stability of the soil, and over time, will help produce more productive cash crops through better nutrient cycling and improved soil health. There are many benefits to planting a cover crop after a cash crop, including breaking up compaction, controlling erosion, suppressing weeds, fixating nitrogen, and improving water infiltration in the soil. We

have put cover crop blends together to fit the need of any farm.

COVER CROPS

CHICORYGrazing Recommendations

• Do not graze until chicory is at least 8 in. tall (generally occurs 60 to 80 days after seeding)

• Graze no lower than 3 in.

• Chicory should be allowed to accumulate growth of 4 in. to 6 in. before going dormant in the fall

• A rest period of 14 to 25 days between grazing periods is best for chicory persistence and performance

• Caution should be taken to not overgraze in August as chicory growth slows during periods of high temperatures

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Dry, Well-drained







Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Grazing, Wildlife

COVER CROPS 78

KALEKale is a summer seeded brassica that is used for fall grazing. It has low fiber stems and is easily digested by livestock. It needs to be seeded when soil temperatures are above 50°F. Kale works well as an intermediate crop when renovating pastures.

Seeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 3 - 4 lb./A.1 lb./A. mix




Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates July - Aug.

Main Usage Wildlife, Forage

• Full maturity variety with short stems

• Low fiber stems with high digestibility

• 150 to 220 days to grazing

• Extends grazing season as cool season pasture ends

MARIS KESTREL

COVER CROPS 79

RAPESEEDSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 6 - 8 lb./A. 1 - 2 lb./A. mix




Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates August

Main Usage Wildlife, Forage, Cover crop

• Late maturing forage rape with short stems and large leaves

• Great for finishing livestock in the fall

• Good source of winter feed after row crops

• Caution: can change milk flavor in dairy cattle

• Cool season brassica that works well alone or seeded with oats

• Great cover crop

• Can start grazing 8 to 10 weeks after seeding

BONAR DWARF ESSEX RAPESEED

COVER CROPS 80

RADISH

• Daikon cover crop radish that produces significant root mass

• Nitrogen mining, nutrient scavenging, and nutrient repositioning

• Great food source for earthworms

• Improves soil biology

GROUND BUILDER RADISH

Seeding Information

Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0




Seeding Rate 6 - 8 lb./A.1 - 4 lb./A. mix




Reproduces By Seed

Planting Dates Early Aug. - Sept.

Main Usage Cover crop, Wildlife, Soil builder

COVER CROPS 81

TURNIPSSeeding Information

Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0

Soil Adoption Wide



Seeding Rate 3 - 10 lb./A. 1 - 2 lb./A. mix




Reproduces By Seed


Main Usage Grazing, Forage

• Vigorous establishment and quick maturity, 60 to 100 days

• Mixes very well with oats

• Plant late summer/early fall

• High-quality, high bulb yielding turnip

• Can utilize in summer or fall

• Mixes with cereal grains well, especially oats

APPIN TURNIP PURPLE TOP TURNIP

COVER CROPS 82

CORN CHAMPION BLENDA combination of 82% Dixie Crimson Clover, 15% GroundBuilder Radishes, and 3% Appin Turnips. We like this product ahead of corn.

• Produces large amounts of nitrogen when crimson clover is allowed to go to flower

• Scavenges nitrogen and other nutrients left over from the previous crop as well as from the crimson clover

• Improves soil structure by reducing compaction

Seeding Information

Planting rate 16 lb./A.

Aerial rate 20 lb./A.


Planting DatesJuly - Sept. (For best

results, plant six weeks before killing frost)

COVER CROPS 83

GROUNDBUILDER RADISHThis product produces large root masses that can shatter compaction, as well as scavenge nitrogen and nutrients deep within the soil.

• Radishes can capture nitrogen before winter killing

• Winter kill in late December or early January

• Ground aeration

• Reduces soil compaction

• Weed suppression

Seeding Information

Planting rate 5 - 7 lb./A.

Aerial rate 8 - 10 lb./A.



results, plant six weeks before killing frost)

COVER CROPS 84

BEANBUILDER BLENDA combination of 81% Beck’s Annual Ryegrass, 16% GroundBuilder Radishes, and 3% Appin Turnips. We like to see this mix ahead of soybeans, but it also works well ahead of corn.

• Breaks up soil compaction

• Improves soil tilth

• Scavenges large amounts of nutrients

• Erosion control

• Improves water infiltration

Seeding Information


Aerial rate 24 lb./A.



results, plant six weeks before killing frost )

COVER CROPS 85

WINTER MIXThis product combines 95% Cereal Rye and 5% Dwarf Essex Rapeseed. The Cereal Rye provides a deep, fibrous root system while the rapeseed helps break up compaction.


• Excellent for erosion control

• Versatility for late planting

• Scavenges nutrients

• Potential to graze

Seeding Information




Planting Dates Aug. - Nov.

COVER CROPS 86

0AT RADISH BLENDThis mix is a combination of 90% Spring Oats and 10% Beck’s GroundBuilder Radishes. It provides the deep rooting potential of radishes and the fibrous root structure of oats.

• Breaks up soil compaction

• Increases soil porosity

• Winter kill

• Increases earthworm activity

• Reduces erosion

Seeding Information




Planting DatesJuly - Oct. (For best results,

plant six weeks before killing frost)

COVER CROPS 87

ANNUAL RYEGRASSWith a dense, fibrous root system, this product is effective in improving soil structure. It is recommended to kill the ryegrass when it is actively putting on new top growth in the spring.

• Can be planted later in the fall

• Has a dense, fibrous root system

• Improves soil tilth

• Will root down 40 in. or more


Seeding Information

Planting rate 10 - 12 lb./A.



Planting Dates July - Oct.

COVER CROPS 88

VNS CEREAL RYE / WINTER RYEFast germinating with a deep, fibrous root system. Winter rye is a great choice following corn.


• Very good for erosion control

• Good root depth

• Can be planted later in the fall

• Assists in weed control for subsequent crop (esp. marestail)

• Good scavenger of nutrients


Seeding Information




Planting Dates July - Nov.

COVER CROPS 89

We hope this guide has been helpful as you consider planting alfalfa. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss alfalfa in more detail, don’t hesitate

to reach out to Ryan Moore.

Ryan Moore Small Seed Product Manager [email protected] 317.565.4059

BECKSHYBRIDS.COM 800.937.2325

forage and cover crop planting guide · 2020. 9. 1. · rapeseed 80 radish 81 turnips 82 corn...

Documents