Forage Species Selection Guide
A step by step guide for choosing forage species that suit your soil, climate, livestock and management, used by graziers and hay producers planning a new stand or renovation.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideForages, Pasture & GrazingFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Define the livestock class and production goal
- Review soil test results and drainage
- Note the local climate and growing season
- Match grass species to soil and moisture
- Pick legumes that fit pH and fertility
- Compare mixtures against single species
- Check seed availability and local adaptation
- Record the final mix and planting plan
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA NRCS.
For more in this area, see the ranch beef reference. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Dairy One Forage Lab Rates Hay “Adequate”; Farmer Rates Its Price “Catastrophic”, and farming farm stories.