On Farm Expectations of Annual Ryegrass in Arkansas
Applied Research
Sarah Stone
County Extension Agent - Agriculture
University of Arkansas
Forrest City
Abstract
Repeated fall droughts have made producers question the efficacy of planting annual ryegrass in Arkansas. Recommendations developed in the late 2010s were studied under wetter fall patterns than has been seen in the early 2020s. The disconnect between these recommendations and producer perceptions has challenged the adoption of regular overseeding of annual ryegrass. The cost of hay and feed for winter feeding is the largest expense of maintaining herds. 2024 USDA-NASS Arkansas reported hay prices averaging $145/ton. Planting annual ryegrass is a pasture management practice that will reduce winter feed cost for beef producers. An on-farm demonstration was conducted from October 2024 to May 2025. The pasture was grazed down short in mid-October. Annual ryegrass was no-till drilled at 25 lb./acre on October 26, 2024. Cattle were taken off the pasture on November 1, 2024. 90 lb./acre N acre was applied on February 14, 2025. 20 cow-calf pairs were rotationally grazed on the ryegrass pasture, starting March 14, 2025, until June 1, 2025. The total savings were $56 per animal unit by grazing annual ryegrass instead of feeding hay. Despite a D2 fall drought, the stand established and met farmer standards.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Sarah Stone
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Stone, S. County Extension Agent - Agriculture, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, Arkansas, 72335