FORAGE AND COVER CROP PLANTING GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ALFALFA 4 - 14 FORAGE BLENDS 45 - 54 COVER CROPS 77 - 89 Cavalry DQ 5 Ultimate Hay Blend 46 Chicory 78 Armour RR 6 Premium Hay Blend 47 Kale 79 EnforceHT 7 Cattle Grazer Blend 48 Rapeseed 80 Fierce XT 8 Pasture Blend 49 Radish 81 LeafGuard XL 9 All Grass Forage Blend 50 Turnips 82 Viper HVXRR 10 Water - Way Blend 51 Corn Champion Blend 83 Triticale / Annual Ryegrass 52 Groundbuilder Radish 84
CLOVERS 15 - 31 Triticale / Pea Blend 53 Beanbuilder Blend 85 Medium Red Clover 16 Oat / Pea Blend 54 Winter Mix 86 Gallant Red Clover 17 Oat Radish Blend 87 Alsike Clover 18 SUMMER ANNUALS 55 - 70 Annual Ryegrass 88 Crimson Clover 19 Sorghum Sudangrass 56 Cereal Rye / Winter Rye 89 Ladino Clover 20 Sweet Six BMR 57 White Clover 21 Sweet - Forever BMR 58 Annual Clover 22 Forage Sorghum 59 Sweet Clover 23 Pearl Millet 60 Plowdown Clover Mixes 24 Milo / Grain Sorghum 61 Birdsfoot Trefoil 25 M6313 62 Crown Vetch 26 M6885 63 Hairy Vetch 27 German Foxtail Millet 67 Korean Lespedeza 28 Japanese Millet 68 Winter Peas 29 Teff Grass 69 Spring Peas 30 Buckwheat 70 Cowpeas 31
CEREAL GRAINS 71 - 76 FORAGE GRASSES 32 - 44 Oats 72 Orchardgrass 33 Barley 73 Forage Tall Fescues 34 Cereal Rye / Winter Rye 74 Smooth Bromegrass 35 Triticale 75 Meadow Bromegrass 36 Spelt 76 Meadow Fescues 37 Annual Ryegrass 38 Italian Ryegrass 39 Perennial Ryegrass 40 Festulolium 41 Timothy 42 Forage KY Bluegrass 43 Reed Canarygrass 44 ALFALFA
Alfalfa 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.
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. CAVALRY DQ
• Fall Dormancy: 4.0 • Disease Resistance: 30
• 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* Disease Resistance Index
Variety Tons/A. Disease Resistance Level CavalryDQ 9.70 Anthracnose HR
Fierce 9.59 Aphanomyces Race 1 HR
Pioneer 55Q27 9.56 Bacterial Wilt HR
FSG426 9.08 Fusarium Wilt HR
HybriForce 3400 9.04 Phytophthora HR * Michigan State University Alfalfa Trail Verticillium Wilt HR
Seeding Information Agronomic Characteristics
Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A. Recovery Fast
Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. + Root Type Tap
Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Standability Excellent
Planting Dates Apr. - May, Aug. - Sept. Forage Yield Excellent Forage Quality Excellent
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
ALFALFA 5 ARMOUR RR
• Fall Dormancy: 4.2
• Winterhardiness: 2.2
• 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
Yield Comparison* Disease Resistance Index
Variety Tons/A. Disease Resistance Level Armour RR 7.58 Anthracnose HR
55V50 7.18 Aphanomyces Race 1 and 2 HR
WL 355RR 6.66 Bacterial Wilt HR
HybriForce 2400 6.70 Fusarium Wilt HR
Liberator 6.39 Phytophthora HR
Legacy 449 APH 2 6.69 Verticillium Wilt HR 54R02 6.37 * 4-Cut Total
Seeding Information Agronomic Characteristics
Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A. Recovery Fast
Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. + Root Type Tap
Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Standability Excellent
Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Forage Yield Excellent
Forage Quality Excellent
2-Year Yield Comparison
Armour RR 55V50 WL 355RR HybriForce 2400 Liberator Legacy 449 13 13.5 14 14.5 15 15.5 Tons/A.
ALFALFA 6 ENFORCE HT
• Fall Dormancy: 5.0 • Disease Resistance: 30
• Winterhardiness: 1.9
• 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
Yield Comparison* Disease Resistance Index
Variety Tons/A. Disease Resistance Level EnforceHT 7.47 Anthracnose HR
54R02 6.67 Aphanomyces Race 1 HR
Consistency 4.1 RR 6.43 Bacterial Wilt HR
Attention II 6.04 Fusarium Wilt HR
HybriForce 2400 7.13 Phytophthora HR
54Q32 5.96 Verticillium Wilt HR * 4-Cut Total
Seeding Information Agronomic Characteristics
Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A. Recovery Very Fast
Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. + Root Type Tap
Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Standability Good
Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Forage Yield Excellent Forage Quality Good
3-Year Yield Comparison
EnforceHT 54V46
HybriForce 2400
Attention II
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Tons/A.
ALFALFA 7 FIERCE XT
• Fall Dormancy: 4.0 • Disease Resistance: 30
• Winterhardiness: 2.0
• 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
Yield Comparison* Disease Resistance Index
Variety Tons/A. Disease Resistance Level
Fierce XT 6.39 Anthracnose HR
WL 365HQ 5.66 Aphanomyces Race 1 and 2 HR
Rebound6XT 5.57 Aphanomyces Race 3 MR
55Q27 5.36 Bacterial Wilt HR
Hi-Gest 360 4.94 Fusarium Wilt HR
Hybriforce 3400 4.79 Phytophthora HR
L-448HVXRR HarvXtra 4.62 Verticillium Wilt HR *2019 Harvest Evansville, WI - Seeded April 2016
Seeding Information Agronomic Characteristics
Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A. Recovery Fast
Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. + Root Type Tap, Branch
Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Standability Good
Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Forage Yield Excellent
Forage Quality Excellent
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
ALFALFA 8 LEAFGUARD XL
• Fall Dormancy: 4.0 • Disease Resistance: 30
• Winterhardiness: 2.0
• 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 Index Seeding Information
* Disease Resistance Level Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A.
Anthracnose HR Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. +
Aphanomyces Race 1 HR Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
Bacterial Wilt HR Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept.
Fusarium Wilt HR
Phytophthora HR
Verticillium Wilt HR
Potato Leafhopper HR
Agronomic Characteristics
Recovery Fast
Root Type Tap
Standability Excellent
Forage Yield Good
Forage Quality Good
ALFALFA 9 VIPER HVXRR
• Fall Dormancy: 4.0 • Disease Resistance: 30
• Winterhardiness: 1.5
• 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
Yield Comparison* Disease Resistance Index
Variety Tons/A. Disease Resistance Level Viper HVXRR 8.32 Anthracnose HR
54R02 7.77 Aphanomyces Race 1 HR
54V09 7.40 Bacterial Wilt HR
WL 355RR 7.22 Fusarium Wilt HR
Consistency 4.10RR 6.92 Phytophthora HR
Attention II 6.72 Verticillium Wilt HR *4-Cut Total
Seeding Information Agronomic Characteristics
Drill Rate 18 - 22 lb./A. Recovery Fast
Broadcast Rate 25 lb./A. + Root Type Tap
Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Standability Excellent
Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Forage Yield Excellent
Forage Quality Excellent
2-Year Yield Comparison
Viper HVRR 54R02 54V09 WL 355RR Attention II Consistancy 4.10RR 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 Tons/A.
ALFALFA 10 ALFALFA TESTING RESULTS
Location – Sharpsville, IN 2019 Harvest Seeding Rate – 20 lb./A.
Planted – May 14, 2018 Cuttings – 4
Plot Size – 2.5 ft. by 25 ft. Previous Crop – Soybeans
Replications – 2 Tillage – Minimum
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
Testing By Rock River Laboratory, Inc.
Mean 5.29
LSD .05 NS
LSD .01 NS
CV % 4.20
ALFALFA 11 ALFALFA TESTING RESULTS
Location – Waupaca, WI 2018 Harvest Seeding Rate – 20 lb./A.
Planted – May 15, 2017 Cuttings – 4
Plot Size – 3 ft. by 17 ft. Previous Crop – Soybeans
Replications – 3 Tillage – Minimum
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
Testing By Rock River Laboratory, Inc.
Mean 6.79
LSD .05 0.61
LSD .01 0.81
CV % 5.40
ALFALFA 12 ALFALFA TESTING RESULTS
Location – Monticello, WI 2018 Harvest Seeding Rate – 20 lb./A.
Planted – April 25, 2017 Cuttings – 4
Plot Size – 2.5 ft. by 20 ft. Previous Crop – Soybeans
Replications – 2 Tillage – Minimum
Variety Tons/A. NDFD CP Lignin RFQ Milk/Ton Milk/A.
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
Testing By Rock River Laboratory, Inc.
Mean 5.32
LSD .05 0.47
LSD .01 0.70
CV % 3.77
ALFALFA 13 ALFALFA TESTING RESULTS
Location – Monticello, WI 2017 Harvest Seeding Rate – 20 lb./A.
Planted – April 25, 2017 Cuttings – 3
Plot Size – 2.5 ft. by 20 ft. Previous Crop – Soybeans
Replications – 2 Tillage – Minimum
Variety Tons/A. NDFD CP Lignin RFQ Milk/Ton Milk/A.
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 – – – – – –
Testing By Rock River Laboratory, Inc.
Mean 4.03
LSD .05 0.38
LSD .01 0.57
CV % 4.01
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.
ALFALFA 14 CLOVERS
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. MEDIUM RED CLOVER
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 227,000
10 - 12 lb./A. Seeding Rate 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. Pasture, Hay, Main Usage Pasture renovation, Soil improvement Precaution Bloat potential
Suggested seeding rates for red clover seeded in a mixture or alone with single grass
lb./A. of Species 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 GALLANT RED CLOVER
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. • 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
RED CLOVER VARIETY TRIAL Ohio, South Charleston, Sown 4/9/2013
% Stand Variety May 28 July 2 Sept. 8 2015 2014 2013 2013-14 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
*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)
CLOVERS 17 ALSIKE CLOVER
Adapted 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 Height at Maturity 12 in. - 36 in.
Poorly drained, Length of Stand 2 - 3 Years Soil Adoption Medium fertility Reproduces By Seed Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 60 Approximate Seeds/lb. 728,000 Planting Dates Jan. - April, Aug. - Sept. 6 - 8 lb./A. Seeding Rate 1 - 2 lb./A. Main Usage Hay, Pasture Days to Germinate 7 - 10 Precautions Bloat potential, Photo sensitivity, Not for horses, Slow drying
CLOVERS 18 CRIMSON CLOVER
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 Length of Stand Weak Biennial
Adopts to wide variety, as Reproduces By Seed Soil Adoption long as soil is well drained Pounds Per Bushel 60 Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Planting Dates Aug. - Sept. Approximate Seeds/lb. 150,000 Main Usage Hay, Pasture, Soil 20 lb./A. Seeding Rate 8 - 10 lb./A. Mix Precautions Bloat potential Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 24 in. - 36 in. AU ROBIN DIXIE
• Improved crimson clover variety • Reseeding variety
• Earlier maturing than VNS crimson clover • Can reach 2.5 ft. in height
• Can produce up to 140 lb./A. of nitrogen (N) • Fine, fibrous root structure
• Quick growing • Available as coated or raw seed
CLOVERS 19 LADINO CLOVER
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.8 - 6.5 Reproduces By Seed and Stolons
Soil Adoption Wide Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Planting Dates Feb. - April
Approximate Seeds/lb. 800,000 Main Usage Hay, Conservation, 4 - 6 lb./A. Pasture, Wildlife Seeding Rate 0.5 - 2 lb./A. Mix Precautions Bloat potential, Slow Days to Germinate 7 - 10 drying for hay
Height at Maturity 15 in. - 36 in.
JUMBO II
• Fast growing, high yielding
• Great forage quality
• Very large leaves, up to 3 in. in optimal conditions
• Excellent regrowth
CLOVERS 20 WHITE CLOVERS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 768,000 3 - 5 lb./A. Seeding Rate 0.5 - 2 lb./A. Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 3 in. - 24 in.
Length of Stand 2 - 10 Years
Reproduces By Seed and stolons
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Dates Feb. - April, Aug. - Sept.
Soil improvement, Main Usage pasture, wildlife Precaution Bloat hazard, Slow drying as hay
LEGACY WHITE DUTCH
• Persistent, grazing tolerant for • Commonly used in lawns as ground cover season-long production • Great for use in plant nurseries between • High stolon density the rows
• Large leaves • Also works in pastures
• Has higher levels on nonstructural • Small leaves, low growing carbohydrates than other white clovers
CLOVERS 21 ANNUAL CLOVERS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5 Moderate to Soil Adoption well drained Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 130,000 8 - 15 lb./A. Seeding Rate 3 - 6 lb./A. Days to Germinate 7
Height at Maturity 18 in. - 30 in.
Length of Stand 6 Months or Less
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Dates April - Aug. Main Usage Cover crops, Nurse crops, Pasture, Hay, Wildfire
BERSEEM CLOVER BALANSA CLOVER
• Great companion with alfalfa to improve yield • Adaptable across a wide range of soils and forage quality • Great for cover crop or a forage • Hollow stems help with quick hay drying • Can be seeded later in the fall than Crimson • Contains tannins that prevent bloat in livestock Clover at a lower seeding rate
• Works well with Cereal Rye
CLOVERS 22 SWEET CLOVERS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.5 - 7.5
Soil Adoption Wide
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 250,000 10 - 15 lb./A. Seeding Rate 2 - 6 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 24 in. - 60 in.
Length of Stand 2 Years
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Dates Jan. - April, Aug. - Sept.
Main Usage Soil improvement Precaution Soybean stem nematode host, Not for hay or pasture
YELLOW BLOSSOM WHITE BLOSSOM
• Good food source for honey bees and • Good food source for honey bees beneficial predatory wasps • Matures 10 to 14 days later than yellow blossom • Matures 10 to 14 days earlier than white sweet clover blossom sweet clover • Do not use for hay, pasture, or silage • Do not use for hay, pasture, or silage
CLOVERS 23 PLOWDOWN CLOVER MIXES
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.5 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 260,000
Seeding Rate 10 - 12 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 24 in. - 48 in.
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Dates Jan. - May
Main Usage Soil improvement Precaution Soybean stem nematode host, Not for hay or pasture
CLOVERS 24 BIRDSFOOT TREFOIL
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0 Length of Stand 4 - 8 Years
Soil Adoption Poorly Drained, low pH Reproduces By Seed
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 60
Approximate Seeds/lb. 400,000 Planting Dates March - April, Aug. - Sept. 6 - 12 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay Seeding Rate 3 - 5 lb./A. Mix Precautions Requires inoculant Days to Germinate 14
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
EMPIRE
• Prostrate growth
• Late maturing, great for pasture
• Very fine stemmed
• Tolerates wet soil very well
CLOVERS 25 CROWN VETCH
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0 Length of Stand Long
Soil Adoption Wide Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Reproduces By Seed, Rhizome
Approximate Seeds/lb. 98,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. 10 - 25 lb./A. Main Usage Ground cover, Stabilization Seeding Rate 5 - 10 lb./A. Mix Precaution Invasive, Must inoculate, Days to Germinate 14+ Not intended for animal consumption Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 2 ft.
CLOVERS 26 HAIRY VETCH
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2
Soil Adoption Well drained, High fertility
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 16,000 18 - 20 lb./A. Seeding Rate 8 - 15 lb./A. Mix Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 15 in. - 24 in.
Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Pounds Per Bushel 60
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
VALLANA AMOREIRAS
• Improved variety of hairy vetch • Low growing cover crop hairy vetch
• Excellent winterhardiness • Great N producer
• Can produce 60-120 lb./A. of N • Establishes quickly and covers the ground
• Best fall seeded
CLOVERS 27 KOREAN LESPEDEZA
Korean 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.
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2 Height at Maturity 15 in. - 36 in.
Soil Adoption Well drained, High fertility Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 238,000 Pounds Per Bushel 25
25 - 35 lb./A. Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 8 - 15 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Silage Days to Germinate 7
CLOVERS 28 WINTER PEAS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 1/2 in. - 1 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 3,500 30 - 50 lb./A. Seeding Rate 20 - 40 lb./A. Mix Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates Aug. - Sept. Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Green manure plowdown
AUSTRIAN WINTER PEAS SURVIVOR
• Cold tolerant, viney, annual legume • Long vined winter forage pea
• Great for cover crop and wildlife plots • Higher yielding than Austrian winter peas
• Can produce 60 to 120 lb./A. N and yield 1 to • Need to be inoculated and drilled 2 ton/A. forage yield • Cold tolerant • Needs to be inoculated and drilled
• Large fan root structure adds organic matter to soil
CLOVERS 29 SPRING PEAS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 3/4 in. - 1 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 3,500 40 - 80 lb./A. Seeding Rate 30 - 40 lb./A. Mix Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates March - April, Aug. - Sept. Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Green manure plowdown STOCKADE
• Improved field pea, leafier
• Spring-planted field pea
• Also used as a cover crop
• Need to be inoculated and drilled
CLOVERS 30 COWPEAS
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils Length of Stand Annual
Planting Depth 3/4 in. - 1 in. Pounds Per Bushel 60
Approximate Seeds/lb. 3,500 Reproduces By Seed 40 - 80 lb./A. Planting Dates March - April, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 30 - 40 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Days to Germinate 7 - 10 Green manure plowdown
CLOVERS 31 FORAGE GRASSES
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. ORCHARDGRASS
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.8 - 8.2 Height at Maturity 24 in. - 40 in.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 8 - 10 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 14
Approximate Seeds/lb. 416,000 Reproduces By Seed
10 - 15 lb./A. Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 2 - 5 lb./A. Mix 7 - 10 Main Usage Hay, Pasture Days to Germinate 18 - 22
PROFIT
• 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
FORAGE GRASSES 33 FORAGE TALL FESCUES
Tall 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 Length of Stand 10+ Years
Soil Adoption Wide, Dry-Wet Reproduces By Seed, Short Rhizomes
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 25
Approximate Seeds/lb. 227,000 Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept.
10 - 30 lb./A. Pasture, Hay, Stockpiling Seeding Rate Main Usage 10 - 15 lb./A. Mix endophyte fungus
Days to Germinate 10 - 12 Precautions Endophyte fungus, Height at Maturity 24 in. - 40 in. KY-31 not recommended for grazing animals
BULL TALL FESCUE KENTUCKY - 31
• Low endophyte tall fescue • Endophyte infected tall fescue
• Matures about a week earlier than KY-31 • Extremely drought tolerant and tough
• Lowest lignin tall fescue available • Good for waterways and other conservation practices • Great for hay or pasture • Do not graze or feed
FORAGE GRASSES 34 SMOOTH BROMEGRASS
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.
• Long-lived sod forming forage grass
• Late maturing grass that matches well with birdsfoot trefoil
• Maintains forage quality up to seed production
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5 Length of Stand 10+ Years
Soil Adoption Well drained, High fertility Reproduces By Seed, Rhizomes
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 14
Approximate Seeds/lb. 140,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept.
15 - 20 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay Seeding Rate 3 - 8 lb./A. Mix Precautions Endophyte fungus, Days to Germinate 14 KY-31 not recommended for grazing animals Height at Maturity 36 in. - 48 in.
FORAGE GRASSES 35 MEADOW BROMEGRASS
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.5 Height at Maturity 36 in. - 48 in.
Soil Adoption Well drained, Fertile Length of Stand 10+ Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed, Rhizomes
Approximate Seeds/lb. 93,000 Pounds Per Bushel 14
15 - 20 lb./A. Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 3 - 8 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Hay, Pasture Days to Germinate 14
MACBETH MEADOW BROME
• Tremendous growth during cool, moist conditions
• Early spring growth
• Top-yielding with rapid regrowth
FORAGE GRASSES 36 MEADOW FESCUES
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.6 - 7.2 Length of Stand 3 -7 Years
Soil Adoption Well drained, High fertility Reproduces By Seed
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 22
Approximate Seeds/lb. 220,000 Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept.
18 - 20 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Silage Seeding Rate 3 - 5 lb./A. Mix Days to Germinate 7
Height at Maturity 15 in. - 36 in.
PREVAL MEADOW FESCUE
• Extremely winterhardy
• Well fit to rotational grazing
• Suitable for hay and grazing
FORAGE GRASSES 37 ANNUAL RYEGRASS
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.6 - 6.2 Length of Stand 1 - 2 Years
Well to moderately drained, Reproduces By Seed Soil Adoption Medium to high fertility Pounds Per Bushel 24
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Planting Dates Feb. - May, Aug. - Oct.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 227,000 Main Usage Pasture, Winter Cover Crop 20 - 35 lb./A. Seeding Rate Precautions Can be considered invasive 10 - 20 lb./A. Mix Days to Germinate 5 - 7
Height at Maturity 12 in. - 24 in.
WINTERHAWK CENTURION
• Extremely winterhardy • Dual purpose cover crop and forage
• Well fit to rotational grazing • Deep rooted with great winterhardiness
• Excellent cover crop - maximum growth of 18 in. • High yielding with improved forage quality
• Great disease resistance package
FORAGE GRASSES 38 ITALIAN RYEGRASS
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.
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.6 - 6.2 Height at Maturity 12 in. - 24 in.
Well-mod-well drained, Length of Stand 1 - 3 Years Soil Adoption Medium to high fertility Reproduces By Seed
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 24
Approximate Seeds/lb. 227,000 Planting Dates Feb. - May, Aug. - Oct. 25 - 40 lb./A. Seeding Rate Main Usage Pasture, Green 3 - 20 lb./A. Mix chop, Haylage Days to Germinate 5 - 7
FEAST II ITALIAN RYEGRASS
• 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
FORAGE GRASSES 39 PERENNIAL RYEGRASS
Perennial 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 Height at Maturity 24 in. - 36 in.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 3 - 5 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 240,000 Pounds Per Bushel 24
20 - 25 lb./A. Planting Dates Feb. - May, Aug. - Oct. Seeding Rate 3 - 10 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Pasture, Hay Days to Germinate 7 - 10 POWER PERENNIAL RYEGRASS
• Late maturing tetraploid variety
• Profuse tillering and rapid regrowth
• Less sensitive to drought and heat than many other varieties
FORAGE GRASSES 40 FESTULOLIUM
Festuloliums 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 Height at Maturity 12 in. - 30 in.
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 210,000 Pounds Per Bushel 24
35 - 40 lb./A. Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 3 - 15 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Grazing, Silage Days to Germinate 10 PERSEUS DUO
• Cross between Italian ryegrass and meadow fescue • Cross between tetraploid perennial ryegrass and a meadow fescue • Well suited for intermediate and late cutting • Winterhardiness and persistence of a • Vigorous spring growth with rapid regrowth meadow fescue after harvest • Forage quality of a perennial ryegrass • Works well during tough weather conditions • Does not tolerate hot, dry conditions
FORAGE GRASSES 41 TIMOTHY
Timothy 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 Height at Maturity 24 in. - 40 in.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 2 - 5 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 1,200,000 Pounds Per Bushel 45
10 - 12 lb./A. Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept. Seeding Rate 1 - 4 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Pasture, Hay Days to Germinate 10 - 14
KOOTENAI TIMOTHY
• Top of the line for yield and forage quality
• Matures three to five days earlier than Climax
• Maturity matches well with alfalfa
FORAGE GRASSES 42 FORAGE KY BLUEGRASS
Kentucky 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 Days to Germinate 14 - 21
Well drained, Height at Maturity 10 in. - 18 in. Soil Adoption High fertility Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Reproduces By Seed, Rhizomes Approximate Seeds/lb. 2,177,000 Pounds Per Bushel 14 15 lb./A. Seeding Rate 2 - 10 lb./A. Mix Planting Dates March - May, Aug. - Sept. Main Usage Pasture, Hay
GINGER BALIN
• Forage type bluegrass with wide leaves and • Very quick establishment relatively tall growth • Early maturing • Well adapted for use in pasture • Good persistence and winterhardiness • Grows well in cooler weather • Tall growth for a bluegrass • Should be mixed with other forage grasses
FORAGE GRASSES 43 REED CANARYGRASS
Reed 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 Length of Stand 10+ Years
Soil Adoption Wide, Dry to very wet Reproduces By Seed, Rhizomes
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Pounds Per Bushel 47
Approximate Seeds/lb. 480,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept.
8 - 12 lb./A. Hay, Conservation, Pasture on Seeding Rate Main Usage 2 - 4 lb./A. Mix wet ground
Days to Germinate 21 - 28 Precautions Can be considered invasive Height at Maturity 3 in. - 8 in
RIVAL
• Great seedling vigor
• Low alkaloid improves animal performance
• Disease resistant
• Flood and drought tolerant
FORAGE GRASSES 44 FORAGE BLENDS
Beck’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. BECK’S ULTIMATE HAY BLEND
• 45% Leafguard Alfalfa • 12% Timothy
• 32% Gallant Medium Red • 11% Orchardgrass
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 374,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
Seeding Rate 30 - 35 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Baleage
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 46 BECK’S PREMIUM HAY BLEND
• 65% Fierce Alflafa
• 22% Orchardgrass
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 374,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
Seeding Rate 25 - 30 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Baleage
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 47 BECK’S CATTLE GRAZER BLEND
• 50% Bronson Tall Fescue • 40% STF-43 Tall Fescue
• 8.5% Gallant Red Clover • 1.5% Jumbo II Ladino Clover
• Formulated for top animal production for beef producers
• Works well for hay or grazing
• Can be stockpiled
• Soft, highly palatable fescues
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 374,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
Seeding Rate 30 - 35 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Baleage
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 48 BECK’S PASTURE BLEND
• 40% Orchardgrass • 10% Timothy
• 20% Festolium • 10% Forage KY Bluegrass
• 20% Perennial Ryegras
• All top producing, forage researched, value added varieties — no cheap fillers
• Can be baled or grazed
• Only elite varieties
• A mix of highly palatable varieties
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.3 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 3 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 374,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
Seeding Rate 30 - 35 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Hay, Baleage
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 49 BECK’S ALL GRASS FORAGE BLEND
• 30% Perennial Ryegrass • 15% Meadow Bromegrass
• 25% Meadow Fescue • 10% Timothy
• 20% Orchardgrass
• All top producing, forage researched, value added varieties — no cheap fillers
• Can be baled or grazed
• A mix of highly palatable grasses
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 3 ft.
Soil Adoption Well drained Length of Stand 7 - 10 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 350,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
Seeding Rate 30 - 35 lb./A. Main Usage Pasture, Baleage
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 50 BECK’S WATER - WAY BLEND
• 45% Bull Tall Fescue
• 45% Perennial Ryegrams
• 10% Creeping Red Fescue
• Produces under tough hot, dry conditions
• Outstanding winterhardiness
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 2 ft.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 4 - 8 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 183,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug. - Sept.
Seeding Rate 40 - 50 lb./A. Main Usage Waterways Days to Germinate 7 - 14
FORAGE BLENDS 51 TRITICALE / ANNUAL RYEGRASS BLEND
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 5 ft.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 1 Cut
Planting Depth 1/2 in. - 1 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 82,000 Planting Dates March - April, Aug.
120 lb./A. Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse Crop Seeding Rate 50 lb./A. Nurse Crop
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 52 TRITICALE / PEA BLEND
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 5 ft.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 1 Cut
Planting Depth 1 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 8,000 - 9,000 Planting Dates March - April, Aug.
100 lb./A. Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse crop Seeding Rate 70 lb./A. Nurse crop
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 53 OAT / PEA BLEND
• 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
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 5 ft.
Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand 1 Cut
Planting Depth 1 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 8,000 - 9,000 Planting Dates March - April, Aug.
120 lb./A. Main Usage Baleage, Silage, Nurse crop Seeding Rate 70 lb./A. Nurse crop
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
FORAGE BLENDS 54 SUMMER ANNUALS
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. SORGHUM SUDANGRASS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Wide, 60°F or warmer Soil Adoption soil temperature
Planting Depth 3/4 in. - 1 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 15,000 - 19,000
Seeding Rate 20 - 50 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7
Height at Maturity 5 ft. - 7 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Sterile
Pounds Per Bushel 56
Planting Dates May - July
Main Usage Green chop, Hay, Silage
SUMMER ANNUALS 56 SWEET SIX BMR
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 Adaptation Ratings
Anthracnose R Photoperiod Insensitive
Downy Mildew MR Soil Temperature Warm (62°F)
Water Requirement Low
Agronomic Traits Crop Use Information
Early Seeding Vigor Excellent Life Cycle Annual
Recovery After Cutting Very good Ease of Establishment Good
Maturity 50 - 55 Days to boot Drought Stress Good
40 -50 in. or in the Minimum pH Excellent Harvest early boot stage Hay Excellent Uniformity Good Silage/Greenchop Excellent Plant Color Purple Rotational Grazing Excellent Midrib Type Brown Rotational Grazing Excellent
Digestibility Excellent
Palatability Excellent
Planting Rates 1 - 1.25 Units N Fertilizer per growing day Seeds per Pound 15,000 - 18,000 20 - 35 (Dryland) First Cutting 40 - 50 Days Drilled 45 - 60 (Irrigated) Second Cutting 25 - 30 Days 25 - 40 (Dryland) Broadcast Double Cropping Excellent 50 - 65 (Irrigated)
SUMMER ANNUALS 57 SWEET - FOREVER BMR
• 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.
Adaption Ratings Crop Use Information
Photosynthetic Type Warm Season Life Cycle Annual
Photoperiod Sensitive Ease of Establishment Good
Soil Temperature Warm (62°F) Drought Stress Excellent
Water Requirements Very Low Minimum pH 6.0
Low pH Tolerance Moderate
Hay Excellent Agronomic Traits Silage Excellent Early Seedling Vigor Excellent Continuous Grazing Excellent Growth Habit Upright Rotational Grazing Excellent Recovery After Cutting Excellent Palatability Outstanding Photoperiod Sensitive Digestibility Excellent 12 hours 20 minutes or Maturity 1 - 1.25 Units N less of day length Fertilizer per growing day Harvest 40 - 84 in. Harvest 40 - 84 in. Uniformity Excellent
Plant Color Purple Disease/Insect/Nematode Ratings Midrib Type BMR /Juicy-sweet Anthracnose R
Downy Mildew R
SUMMER ANNUALS 58 FORAGE SORGHUM
Forage 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 Length of Stand Annual
Soil Adoption Wide, 60°F or warmer Reproduces By Sterile
Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in. Pounds Per Bushel 56
Approximate Seeds/lb. 13,000 - 15,000 Planting Dates May - July
60 - 80,000 lb./A. Main Usage Hay, Silage Seeding Rate 20 in. - 30 in. Rows Precautions Prussic acid, Days to Germinate 7 Nitrate poisoning
Height at Maturity 5 ft. - 8 ft.
SILO - PRO BRACHYTIC DWARF BMR
• 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
SUMMER ANNUALS 59 PEARL MILLET
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.5
Wide, 60°F or warmer Soil Adoption soil temperature
Planting Depth 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 60,000
Seeding Rate 16 - 20 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 10
Height at Maturity 2 in. - 4 in.
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 52
Planting Dates May - July
Main Usage Hay, Graze
SUMMER ANNUALS 60 GRAIN SORGHUM / MILO
Worldwide, 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 Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 4 ft.
Wide, 60°F or warmer Length of Stand Annual Soil Adoption soil temperature Reproduces By Seed
Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in. Pounds Per Bushel 56
Approximate Seeds/lb. 14,000 Planting Dates May - Aug.
Seeding Rate 4 - 10 lb./A Main Usage Wildlife, Grain Days to Germinate 7 Precautions Prussic acid, Nitrate poisoning
SUMMER ANNUALS 61 M6313
Beck M6313 milo is an early-medium maturity hybrid with outstanding yield potential and is broadly adaptable across a wide range of growing conditions. • Early-medium maturity hybrid with outstanding yield
• Sugarcane aphid tolerance
• Excellent dryland option
• Stong standibility
Planting Traits Positioning and Adaptability
RM - Days to flowering 63 Heavy clay soils 7
Yield for maturity 9 Irrigation 9
Yield under drought 7 No-till 8
Seedling vigor 7 Drought prone soils 7
Stalk strength 8 Dryland 8
Root strength 7 9 = Excellent 5 = Poor Head exertion 7
Test weight 7
Plant height 7
Sugarcane aphid 9
Grain color Bronze
SUMMER ANNUALS 62 M6885
Beck M6885 milo is a medium-late maturity hybrid with excellent yield potential and outperforms in dryland or irrigated environments. • Medium-late maturity hybrid with excellent yield potential
• Sugarcane aphid tolerance
• Drought tolerant; outperforms in dryland or irrigated environments
• Excellent stalk strength
Planting Traits Positioning and Adaptability
RM - Days to flowering 68 Heavy clay soils 7
Yield for maturity 9 Irrigation 9
Yield under drought 8 No-till 6
Seedling vigor 7 Drought prone soils 7
Stalk strength 8 Dryland 8
Root strength 7 9 = Excellent 5 = Poor Head exertion 8
Test weight 8
Plant height 8
Sugarcane aphid 9
Grain color Bronze
SUMMER ANNUALS 63 PLANTING MILO / 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.
PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDES FOR GRAIN SORGHUM*
SITE OF HERBICIDE ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS ACTIVE INGREDIENT FORMULATED PRODUCT
Bicep II Magnum® (u) Use 1.3 to 2 qt./A. on soil with OM less than 1%. S-Metolachlor sandy loam: do not use sandy loam: do not use Controls most annual grasses and many broadleaf 15+5 silt loam: 0.95-1.5 lb. silt loam: 1.3-2.1 qts. + Atrazine (U) silty clay loam: 0.95-1.5 lb. weeds. Do not use unless your seed has been silty clay loam: 1.3-2.1 qts. treated with Concep® seed safener.
Recommended on overflow areas or fields where Dual II Magnum® variable soil textures prevent pre-emergence sandy loam: 0.96 to 1.27 lbs. application of atrazine. Will control most annual S-Metolachlor 15 silt loam: 1.27-1.43 lb sandy loam: 1-1.33 pts. silty clay loam: 1.27-1.6 lb. silt loam: 1.33-1.5 pts. grasses and some broadleaf weeds. Use only silty clay loam: 1.33-1.67 pts. with Concep® or Screen safener seed. Use post- emergence herbicide for broadleaf weed control.
S-Metolachlor Halex® GT + Glyphosate + 15+9+27 2.0-2.2 lb. 3.6-4 pts./A. Can be used pre-plant or pre-emergence. Mesotrione
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 S-Metolachlor + Lexar® EZ (u) if irrigation or rainfall is received following the Mesotrione + 15+27+5 2.78 lb. 3 qts. Atrazine (U) 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. *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.
Individual Results May Vary. Always Read and Follow Label Directions.
SUMMER ANNUALS 64 PLANTING MILO / GRAIN SORGHUM
SITE OF HERBICIDE ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS ACTIVE INGREDIENT FORMULATED PRODUCT
Do not use on soils containing less than 1% ® Guardsman Max (u) organic matter. Controls most annual grasses and sandy loam: do not use sandy loam: do not use Dimethenamid + 15+5 silt loam: 1.9-2.5 lb. many broadleaf weeds. Do not use unless your Atrazine (u) silt loam: 1.5-2 qts. ® silty clay loam: 1.9-2.5 lb. silty clay loam: 1.5-2 qts. seed has been treated with Concep or Screen seed safener.
Before applying Sharpen to sorghum, verify ® with your local seed representative the Saflufenacil 14 0.067 lb. Sharpen SG 3 oz. selectivity of Sharpen on your hybrid to help avoid potential injury.
Apply pre-plant or before grain sorghum that has ® been treated with an approved chloroacetamide Saflufenacil + 14+15 0.218-0.436 lb. Verdict 5.57 EC Dimethenamid-P 5-10 oz. seed safener such as Concep® III. Tank mix with glyphosate or paraquat for best burndown results.
Apply only to sorghum planted with seed that Warrant® Acetochlor 15 1.1-1.65 lb. 1.5-2.25 qts. has been properly treated with seed protectant or safener.
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 Carfenrazone-Ethyl 14 0.008 lb. Aim 0.5 oz. 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.
Apply overtop before weeds exceed 1.5 in. in height. Grain sorghum should be fully emerged. Aatrex® Refer to the label for directions on applying Atrazine (u)* 5 2 lb. 2 qts. 4L in combination with emulsifiable oil. Do not 2.2 lb. Nine-0 apply during cloudy weather. Post-emergence applications must be made before crop exceeds 12 in. tall.
Apply overtop grain sorghum to control most Basagran® Bentazon 6 0.75-1.0 lb. 1.5-2 pts. broadleaf weeds less than 4 in. tall. Refer to label for specific weed sizes.
Apply overtop grain sorghum from the 3-leaf stage to a 12 in. height to control most broadleaf Buctril 4E Bromoxynil 6 0.25-0.38 lb. 0.5-0.75 pts. 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.
Apply overtop grain sorghum from emergence to 8 in. tall. Use drop nozzles to apply to row Banvel® middles and prevent spraying into the crop whorl Dicamba 4 0.125-0.25 lb. 0.25-0.5 pts. when sorghum is between 8 and 15 in. tall. Do not apply by air. Use caution to prevent drift and injury to sensitive crops. *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.
Individual Results May Vary. Always Read and Follow Label Directions.
SUMMER ANNUALS 65 PLANTING MILO / GRAIN SORGHUM
PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDES FOR GRAIN SORGHUM*
SITE OF HERBICIDE ACTION RATE/A. BROADCAST REMARKS ACTIVE INGREDIENT FORMULATED PRODUCT
® Apply overtop grain sorghum between 3-leaf stage Pyrasulfotole + 27+6 0.2-0.25 lb. Huskie Bromoxynil 12.8-16 oz. of growth and up to 12 in.
Soybeans can be planted 10 months after a Peak® 75WG Prosulfuron 2 0.023-0.035 lb. 0.5-0.75 oz. peak application. Refer to label for other zone designations.
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 Halosulfuron 2 0.32-0.047 lb. Permit 75WSG 0.67-1 oz. 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.
Apply overtop grain sorghum that is 6 in. to 10 2, 4-D 2, 4-D 4 0.25-0.5 lb. 0.5-1 pt. in. tall to control most broadleaf weeds. Use drop nozzles if sorghum is more than 10 in. tall.
*Post-emergence treatments may be required to control cocklebur, sicklepod, or other hard-to-control broadleaf weeds. (u) University of Tennessee Restricted Use Pesticide - Refer to label for precautions to be taken during landling and application.
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.html https://www.agry.purdue.edu/ext/corn/news/timeless/LatePlantGrainSorghum.html
Individual Results May Vary. Always Read and Follow Label Directions.
SUMMER ANNUALS 66 GERMAN FOXTAIL MILLET
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Wide, 60°F or warmer Soil Adoption soil temperature
Planting Depth 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 220,000
Seeding Rate 20 - 30 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 10
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 50
Planting Dates May - July
Main Usage Hay, Graze
GERMAN FOXTAIL MILLET
• Fast maturing summer annual grass
• One cut harvest available 60 days after emergence
• Very low water use
• Great for wildlife
SUMMER ANNUALS 67 JAPANESE MILLET
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 6.5
Well suited for areas Soil Adoption with wet conditions
Planting Depth 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 155,000
15 - 30 lb./A. Seeding Rate 9 - 12 lb./A. mix
Days to Germinate 10
Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 5 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 35
Planting Dates May - June
Main Usage Wildlife, Food plots
JAPANESE MILLET
• 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
SUMMER ANNUALS 68 TEFF GRASS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Wide, 60°F or warmer Soil Adoption soil temperature
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 1,250,000
Seeding Rate 10 - 12 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 3 - 5
Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 2 ft.
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates May - July Main Usage Hay, Silage, Grazing after one cut
SUMMER DELITE TEFF GRASS
• 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 ANNUALS 69 BUCKWHEAT
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.0 - 6.5
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 14,200
Seeding Rate 35 - 50 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 3 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 60
Planting Dates June - Aug.
Main Usage Wildlife, Cover crop, Grain
BUCKWHEAT
• 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
SUMMER ANNUALS 70 CEREAL GRAINS
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. 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 Length of Stand Annual
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils Reproduces By Seed
Planting Depth 1/2 in. Pounds Per Bushel 32
Approximate Seeds/lb. 14,000 March - April (Forage/Grain production), Seeding Rate 64 - 96 lb./A. Planting Dates Aug. - Oct. Days to Germinate 10 (Cover crop or forage)
Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 5 ft. Main Usage Cereal grain, Nurse crop, Cover crop, Forage crop
HAYWIRE JERRY
• High-yielding, high-quality forage oat • Dual purpose grain/forage oat
• About 58 days to boot stage • Great as a cover crop
• Excellent standability • Good lodging resistance
• Lead 2014 Pennsylvania trial in forage quality • Good yields and straw production
CEREAL GRAINS 72 BARLEY
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Well drained
Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 12,500
Seeding Rate 75 - 100 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7
Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 5 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 48
Planting Dates March - May, Sept. - Oct.
Main Usage Grain, Forage
VALOR (WINTER BARLEY)
• Six-rowed, short awned barley
• Excellent winterhardiness
• Winter barley needs to be seeded early fall
• Early to mature in the spring, about two weeks before wheat
CEREAL GRAINS 73 VNS CEREAL RYE / WINTER RYE
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 18,000
Seeding Rate 50 - 100 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7 - 10
Height at Maturity 5 ft. - 7 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 56
Planting Dates Sept. - Nov. Main Usage Grazing, Green manure, Silage, Cover crop
VNS WINTER RYE
• 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 (Variety not stated)
CEREAL GRAINS 74 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 3 ft. - 4 ft. (Spring) Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0 Height at Maturity 5 ft. - 7 ft. (Fall) Soil Adoption Wide Length of Stand Annual Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in. Reproduces By Seed Approximate Seeds/lb. 20,000 Pounds Per Bushel 42 100 - 126 lb./A. Seeding Rate Planting Dates March - April, Sept. - Oct. 50 - 70 lb./A. Mix Main Usage Grazing, Hay, Silage Days to Germinate 10
SPRING TRITICAL WINTER TRITICAL
• High-yielding spring seeded forage • Excellent winterhardiness
• Harvest in the boot stage for optimal quality • Superior straw strength
• Graze in vegetative stage for high • High forage yield quality pasture • Bearded; great for green chop
CEREAL GRAINS 75 SPELT
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 1 in. - 1 1/2 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 14,000 Dehulled
Seeding Rate 80 - 100 lb./A.
Days to Germinate 7
Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 4 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Pounds Per Bushel 40
Planting Dates Sept. - Oct.
Main Usage Grain
CEREAL GRAINS 76 COVER CROPS
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. CHICORY
Grazing 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 Height at Maturity 1 ft. - 3 ft.
Soil Adoption Dry, Well-drained Length of Stand 1 - 7 Years
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Reproduces By Seed
Approximate Seeds/lb. 425,000 Planting Dates April - May, Aug.
6 - 8 lb./A. Main Usage Grazing, Wildlife Seeding Rate 1 - 4 lb./A. Mix
Days to Germinate 7 - 21
COVER CROPS 78 KALE
Kale 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 Days to Germinate 5 - 7
Soil Adoption Wide Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 4 ft.
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in. Length of Stand Annual
Approximate Seeds/lb. 130,000 Reproduces By Seed
3 - 4 lb./A. Planting Dates July - Aug. Seeding Rate 1 lb./A. mix Main Usage Wildlife, Forage
MARIS KESTREL
• 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
COVER CROPS 79 RAPESEED
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 120,000
6 - 8 lb./A. Seeding Rate 1 - 2 lb./A. mix
Days to Germinate 5 - 7
Height at Maturity 3 ft. - 4 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates August
Main Usage Wildlife, Forage, Cover crop
BONAR DWARF ESSEX RAPESEED
• Late maturing forage rape with short stems • Cool season brassica that works well alone or and large leaves seeded with oats
• Great for finishing livestock in the fall • Great cover crop
• Good source of winter feed after row crops • Can start grazing 8 to 10 weeks after seeding
• Caution: can change milk flavor in dairy cattle
COVER CROPS 80 RADISH
Seeding Information
Soil pH 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide range of soils
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/3 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 35,000
6 - 8 lb./A. Seeding Rate 1 - 4 lb./A. mix
Days to Germinate 4 - 6
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 3 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates Early Aug. - Sept. Main Usage Cover crop, Wildlife, Soil builder
GROUND BUILDER 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
COVER CROPS 81 TURNIPS
Seeding Information
Soil pH 5.5 - 7.0
Soil Adoption Wide
Planting Depth 1/8 in. - 1/4 in.
Approximate Seeds/lb. 240,000
3 - 10 lb./A. Seeding Rate 1 - 2 lb./A. mix
Days to Germinate 5 - 7
Height at Maturity 2 ft. - 3 ft.
Length of Stand Annual
Reproduces By Seed
Planting Dates March - April, Aug.
Main Usage Grazing, Forage
APPIN TURNIP PURPLE TOP TURNIP
• Vigorous establishment and quick maturity, • High-quality, high bulb yielding turnip 60 to 100 days • Can utilize in summer or fall • Mixes very well with oats • Mixes with cereal grains well, especially oats • Plant late summer/early fall
COVER CROPS 82 CORN CHAMPION BLEND
A 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 Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
July - Sept. (For best Planting Dates results, plant six weeks before killing frost)
COVER CROPS 83 GROUNDBUILDER RADISH
This 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.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
July - Sept. (For best Planting Dates results, plant six weeks before killing frost)
COVER CROPS 84 BEANBUILDER BLEND
A 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
Planting rate 19 lb./A.
Aerial rate 24 lb./A.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
July - Sept. (For best Planting Dates results, plant six weeks before killing frost )
COVER CROPS 85 WINTER MIX
This 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. • Extremely winterhardy
• Excellent for erosion control
• Versatility for late planting
• Scavenges nutrients
• Potential to graze
Seeding Information
Planting rate 35 lb./A.
Aerial rate 40 - 50 lb./A.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
Planting Dates Aug. - Nov.
COVER CROPS 86 0AT RADISH BLEND
This 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 rate 35 lb./A.
Aerial rate 45 - 50 lb./A.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
July - Oct. (For best results, Planting Dates plant six weeks before killing frost)
COVER CROPS 87 ANNUAL RYEGRASS
With 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
• Excellent winterhardiness
Seeding Information
Planting rate 10 - 12 lb./A.
Aerial rate 20 - 25 lb./A.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
Planting Dates July - Oct.
COVER CROPS 88 VNS CEREAL RYE / WINTER RYE
Fast germinating with a deep, fibrous root system. Winter rye is a great choice following corn. • Excellent winterhardiness
• 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
• VNS (Variety not stated)
Seeding Information
Planting rate 35 lb./A.
Aerial rate 45 - 50 lb./A.
Planting Depth 1/4 in. - 1/2 in.
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