Cool-season annual forages like ryegrass, wheat, and oats are often planted to provide high-quality grazing. These forages require nitrogen fertilizer applied at the right time in the right amounts to increase yields.
Fertilizer timing and amounts will vary based on rainfall over the growing season and if they are planted in a prepared seedbed or overseeded on bermudagrass. In general, the 1st nitrogen application should occur in the fall followed by a 2nd application during the winter. If needed, a 3rd application can be applied in the spring.
Fertilizer spills or over application can increase nitrate content of these forages and should be avoided.
