Many factors influence successful forage productionbut establishment of the crop is a key to profitability. It is essential to choose the appropriate crop species for the needed yieldqualityand persistence.

It is then critical to choose a variety that is recommended for one’s area. (Find more information on which forage species is appropriate for the need and a list of recommended varieties for the selected species at www.alabamaforages.com.)

Attention to other factors that affect successful stand establishment and yield is also important. Select high- quality seed that meets or exceeds recommended levels of germinationpurityand weed seed contamination. Ensure that the seed is planted at the right ratedepthand time of the year. Additionallyensure that seeding method and planting environment are appropriate to the species too. Also ensure that the seed is either pre-inoculated or that it is inoculated with the correct inoculant group.

The planting operation is when producers most often make yield-reducing mistakesso take time to minimize these errors. This planting guide has been developed to help producers in establishing most forage legumes commonly grown in Alabama. Information provided about a given forage species is not necessarily a recommendation to grow that species but rather is for information only. Some commonly grown forage legumes are not recommended by Auburn University. Some varieties of given species may also produce well in certain areas while others may not. This guide simply offers the information needed to have the best chance of establishing a forage legume speciesif a producer so chooses.

Five Steps to Higher Yields and More Profit