As winter winds down it's time to start thinking about spring and summer forages for your livestock. You may choose to plant grass or a mixed variety of seeds. Before planting your seeds, make sure to take a soil sample. When filling out a soil sample form, it is important to select the grass/mixture you want to plant to get the most helpful results. The soil sample results will help guide you in providing the correct amount of nutrients for your crop to thrive. If you have any questions or need help interpreting your soil sample results, reach out to your local N.C. Cooperative Extension office for help.

When selecting seeds, ensure they are well-suited for the area and time of year. It's vital to choose plants that can handle hot summer months and drought stress. If you don't select seeds well-suited for the area, your success rate will decrease drastically.

Planning what type of forage/grass you want to plant is a good idea. A good practice is to order grass seed early so you have it on hand when it's time to start planting. You can also try coming-up with your own seed mixture for your pastures or hayfields.

If you have any questions, call the Livestock and Field Crops Agent, Skyler Murray at (828) 652-8104.