LEGAL NOTICE

In cases where livestock deaths were associated with feeding sweet vernal grass, the sweet vernal grass often comprised 80 to 90% of the hay. A small amount of sweet vernal grass in hay is not necessarily a problem as long as cattle are not forced to clean it up. Animals will eat around it. Certainly if sweet vernal grass is that prevalent in a stand, the producer should consider killing the entire pasture and reseeding. Sweet vernal grass is a cool-season species, so a fall burn-down followed by a spring seeding will make the most sense in many cases. Tillage–provided that the field has not been tilled frequently in the past–can help bury sweet vernal grass seed to prevent future germination. Rotation to a crop like alfalfa or corn silage where there are more weed control options can also help draw down weed populations.

For producers with some sweet vernal grass, there are no silver bullets. Once introduced, it can be a very drought-tolerant grass and competes very well with desirable forage grasses on acidic or nutrient-poor soils. Producers should pull soil tests and lime and fertilize accordingly. Areas with sweet vernal grass should be cut last while the seed heads are on the plant, or equipment should be cleaned with an air compressor or shop vac before moving onto an uninfested field. Small areas can be spot-sprayed, but chemicals that kill sweet vernal grass will also kill desirable forage species. Sweet vernal grass is a perennial, but a weak perennial, and in Virginia it has been observed to behave more like an annual. Controlling seed production by repeated mowing may help reduce pressure over time, but it also may not be feasible in many cases. Ultimately, prevention is key. Scout your fields, keep an eye on your soil test results, and use best haying and grazing management practices.

—Submitted by the Goochland County Extension Office