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This year in northeast Nebraska, we started with a dry spring that slowed early brome growth and kept yields low in many fields. The good news is that summer moisture returned, and most stands have been able to rebound, putting us in a decent trajectory as we head into fall.
Growth this spring was limited by moisture and, in general, plants matured before much production occurred. While summer moisture boosted regrowth, total production for grazing and hay has still been on the low side. At this point, taking an inventory of forage resources is a good idea in case other hay sources or grazing opportunities need to be utilized. While fall growth on brome may be an option in these cases, I wouldn't count on it too much. Dry con ditions this fall, an early frost, or other unfavorable weather could easily limit yields.
Another factor to consider when deciding whether to utilize fall brome growth this year is stress. While brome is known for its toughness, it does have limits. Plants this spring were stressed during a critical growth stage and are still recovering. Fall growth is not only an opportunity for more forage, but also a chance for plants to restore depleted root reserves. If possible, focus on recovery first and production second. Growth this fall will mean a healthier and more productive field next spring.
If plants are growing and soil moisture is good, consider light nitrogen fertilization along with phosphorus if soil tests show a need. Reduced grass competition this fall can also open the door to interseeding legumes like red clover or alfalfa to add diversity and long-term productivity. If grazing or haying stressed pastures is un- avoidable, don't overdo it.
Additionally, mature seed heads left from earlier in the year can irritate eyes when grazing, increasing the risk of pinkeye. Finally, plan ahead for reduced growth next spring if stands are grazed hard now. Remember, fall growth is strongly tied to early spring production. Providing some additional fertility next year can help maintain yields, but eventually, without rest, two things will happen:
• Overall stand production will decrease as chronically stressed plants have less energy to put into new growth.
• Weaker stands will be more susceptible to encroachment from weedy species that will require additional management to control.
Good summer rains have helped many brome fields bounce back from a slow start, but the management decisions you make this fall will play a big role in how those stands perform next year. Resting and recovering them now can mean healthier stands and better yields in 2026 - and can help break the cycle of stress that's hard to recover from once it starts.
-Ben Beckman is a livestock systems Extension Educator based out of the Cedar County Extension oce in Har tington. You can reach him by phone: (402) 254-6821 or email: [email protected]
