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Consider a Forage Planting of Peas and Oats

March 29, 2024

When alfalfa or hay stands need to be enhanced or rotated out, there are several options to keep in mind. How quickly forage will be needed is usually a deciding factor. 

One of the quickest growing forages is a small grain paired with forage peas. This option can be planted as soon as field conditions allow in April/May and are usually ready for harvest in 60-90 days, depending on tonnage and/or quality requirements. 

Remember, when optimum quality is needed, small grains should be harvested at late boot stage, whereas heifers/dry cows/beef cattle can tolerate a later cutting, around soft dough stage. Peas mixed with spring barley or spring triticale is quite common, however oats are peas are undoubtedly the most widely used combination.

Adding a legume like forage peas to oats increases protein, makes the mix more palatable, and provides a higher quality silage than small grains alone. Partner Pea/Oat Mix is a 50/50 formulation, normally planted in spring, but suited for fall as well. Partner Pea/Oat Mix needs about 60-65 days from emergence to harvest (in boot stage). At lower rates, it can be used as a nurse crop for forage/hay seedlings. This mix can even tolerate a late spring frost once established.

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