Harvest management of cool-season forages during the seeding year depends on time and method of seeding, species, fertility, weather conditions and other factors. Forages seeded in August or early September should not be harvested or clipped until the following year. For spring seedings, it is best to harvest the first growth mechanically. This is especially true for tall-growing legumes. If stands are grazed, stock fields with enough livestock to consume the available forage in less than seven days. Grazing for a longer period increases the risk of stand loss. Soils should be firm to avoid trampling damage. The following are general harvest management guidelines for spring seedings, according to species.
Alfalfa. Generally, two harvests are possible in the seeding year when alfalfa is seeded without a companion crop; three harvests are possible with early planting and good growing conditions. The first cutting can be made 60 to 70 days after emergence. Subsequent cuttings should be made in early bloom stage (approximately 30- to 35- day intervals), with the last harvest taken by the first week of September. Fall cutting is not advisable; even a late dormant cutting is not recommended because it increases the risk of winter heaving. When seeding with a small grain companion crop, the first harvest should be taken during the late boot or early-heading stage of the companion crop.
Birdsfoot Trefoil. Seedling growth of trefoil is much slower than alfalfa or red clover. Seeding year harvests should be delayed until the trefoil is in full bloom. Do not harvest after Sept. 1. When seeded with a companion crop, an additional harvest after removal of the small grain is generally not advisable.
Red Clover. When seeded without a companion crop, red clover can usually be harvested twice in the year of establishment. Under good conditions, up to three harvests are possible. Harvest red clover before full bloom in the seeding year. If allowed to reach full bloom in the year of seeding, red clover often has reduced stands and yields the following year. Complete the last harvest by the first week of September. COOL-
Season Grasses. Harvest management depends greatly on stand vigor and weather conditions. Most grasses establish slowly compared with alfalfa. Clipping may be necessary to prevent annual weeds from going to seed.