FORAGE VARIETIES FOR MICHIGAN IN 2006

Richard Leep, Timothy Dietz, Doo Hong Min, and Christian Kapp

Forage is defined as “edible parts of plants, other than separated grain, that can provide feed for animals, or that can be harvested for feeding.” Over 2.5 million acres of Michigan farmland is dedicated to forage production with a total value of the forage harvested or grazed from this land of approximately $600 million. By acreage, forages (hay and pastureland) are the number one crop in the state. Perennial forages help prevent soil erosion and protect water quality. In addition, forages add an eye appealing green landscape and open space across the state of Michigan.

Many Michigan farmers are faced with equipment, land and labor costs that are increasing exponentially, while the value of the products sold off the farm gain slowly, holds or declines. Increasing the profit margin requires good management and improved varieties to increase yields.

Michigan State University has established over twenty-five research trials in five locations across the state to evaluate management practices and varieties in an unbiased manner. Yield, persistence, and forage quality are the primary components that are compared in these trials. There are five primary locations for forage variety trials including: Chatham at the Upper Peninsula Experiment Station, Lake City at the Lake City Experiment Station, Saginaw at the Saginaw Bean and Beet Experiment Station, East Lansing at the Crop and Soil Science Teaching and Research Facility, and Hickory Corners at the Kellogg Biological Station.

2005 Conditions

Winter injury of forage crops was evident throughout the state; likely caused by cold, snow-less periods. Alfalfa stands suffered from winter injury/kill likely caused by: lack of snow cover, low temperatures, and intermittent thawing/freezing. In some cases, the practice of leaving a greater stubble height or leaving the last cutting helped by trapping snow as an insulating barrier. Ice sheeting in poorly drained area also occurred statewide resulting in stand loss. Dry conditions and above normal temperatures prevailed statewide in early spring and prompted many producers to establish seedings early. Some of these stands suffered due to slower germination from cool soils and a lack of rainfall. Microclimates (within the field), soil type, and tillage methods played a critical role in seeding success. Rainfall amounts varied by location, with Saginaw and Chatham remaining below average season-long (Figure 1., data from Michigan Automated Weather Network). Timely rainfall and warm temperatures in East Lansing resulted in five cuttings and near record yields for non-irrigated alfalfa totaling greater than 10 tons DM/acre in three cultivars. Better genetics, including: greater disease resistance, multifoliate characteristics, and cultivars with faster regrowth/recovery following harvest also played an important role in high yields. The two top varieties in the trial out yielded Vernal alfalfa by almost 4 tons per acre which shows that it pays to plant improved varieties.

EVALUATION OF ALFALFA VARIETIES

Michigan State University has evaluated more than 100 commercially available alfalfa varieties in its alfalfa variety trials since 2000. Plant breeders, developers, and marketers submit both commercial and experimental alfalfa varieties to MSU for testing. Varieties in these trials are evaluated for yield and persistence for at least three years. Alfalfa trials have been established at East Lansing in southern Lower Michigan, Lake City in central northern Michigan, Saginaw in east central Michigan and Chatham in the central Upper Peninsula.

Most of the varieties entered are evaluated at East Lansing and these trials are usually two to three times larger than trials in other sites in the state. Yield is expressed in dry matter tons per acre as an average over two or three years for 54 alfalfa varieties seeded at East Lansing from 2000-2003 and single year data is presented from the 2004 seeding (Table 1). Yield of 35 varieties seeded at Lake City from 2000-2004 is provided in Table 2, and 3-year yield averages of varieties evaluated at Sandusky and Saginaw are presented in Table 3. Table 4 contains yield results from varieties evaluated in 2001 and 2003 at the Upper Peninsula Experiment Station in Chatham.

Potato Leafhopper Resistant Alfalfa Varieties

Potato leafhopper (PLH) is an insect that reduces alfalfa yield each year in Michigan. It is the most damaging insect to alfalfa in Michigan. It is carried by the gulf-stream air currents, this pest “rains” down on alfalfa fields in mid to late June. It damages alfalfa by injecting a piercing mouth-part (stylet) into the stem and petiole of alfalfa. The insertion of the stylet and subsequent injection of toxic saliva girdles the plant. The result is decreased flow of nutrients and eventually stunting. “Hopperburn” is the term used for the yellowing that occurs from leafhopper damage. Yield can be reduced greatly when sufficient numbers of PLH exist. For information on insecticide control of potato leafhopper in alfalfa consult your local extension office.

In 1997, several alfalfa seed marketers released potato leafhopper resistant (PLHR) alfalfa varieties. The resistance levels of varieties released in 1997 varied greatly but most were under 25% resistant plants. Growers that were expecting protection or resistance in the early released PLHR varieties were very disappointed. Most PLHR alfalfa varieties released in the last 2 years have populations that exceed 75% resistance, which has, through several university studies, proven to be an adequate level of resistance. Even though alfalfa varieties are resistant to potato leafhoppers, they may benefit from insecticide applications especially in the establishment year. Iowa State University has suggested that growers scouting new PLHR varieties use new economic thresholds of treatment of 4 times the previous threshold. Yield data from the East Lansing 2000-2004 PLH-resistant variety trials are presented in Table 5. No insecticide was applied to these trials.

Alfalfa Cutting Management

Selecting an appropriate alfalfa variety for an environment requires careful consideration. Yield and persistence of an alfalfa variety are only a part of establishing and maintaining an alfalfa stand. Good management practices are also important. Even the best alfalfa variety will not perform well under poor management conditions. Establish good stands on adequately drained soils. Adjust soil pH a full year prior to seeding. Fertilize before seeding and broadcast annually with phosphorous and potassium as recommended by soil tests. The appropriate cutting management system depends on the location, yield goal, forage quality desired, and desired stand life.

Selection of an Alfalfa Variety

I. SELECTION FOR SHORT-TERM STANDS -- UP TO FIVE YEARS.

Most alfalfa stands in Michigan are left for three- to four-years. Varieties selected for short-term stands should be: 1) at least moderately winterhardy, 2) high yielding, and 3) resistant to bacterial wilt (BW) and anthracnose (AN). Resistance to Phytophthora root rot (PRR) is desirable when alfalfa is grown on damp, fine‑textured soils.

II. SELECTION FOR LONG-TERM STANDS -- OVER FIVE YEARS.

Winterhardiness is of primary importance for long-lived stands. Winterhardy varieties may be slower to recover than moderately hardy varieties after a mid-September cutting. Compared to moderately hardy varieties, winterhardy varieties may flower three to five days later in the first cutting. Winterhardy varieties may be lower in yield than moderately hardy varieties in three- to five-year stands but are usually higher yielding after about five years, especially in northern Michigan.

Select high-yielding winterhardy varieties resistant to PRR for long-lived stands. Varieties in dormancy group 2 are more likely than moderately hardy varieties (dormancy groups 3 and 4) to establish "permanent" cover, but will not yield as well.

III. SELECTION FOR PASTURES

Alfalfa varieties used in pastures should be selected for long-lived stands with resistance to Phytophthora root rot. Allowing adequate rest periods of 30-35 days between grazing cycles will enhance longevity of alfalfa for pastures. In addition, allowing a rest period in the fall will allow the alfalfa crop to store up needed carbohydrates and proteins for better winter survival. Several commercial varieties are being marketed with improved tolerance to grazing. Alfalfa-grass mixtures in pastures will usually result in better meat and milk gains compared to grass monocultures. The grass component will reduce the risks of bloat in ruminant animals as well. In addition, alfalfa will provide needed nitrogen for the grass through nitrogen fixation.

Winterhardiness and Fall Dormancy Ratings

Fall dormancy (FD) ratings are determined by the amount of regrowth after a mid-September cutting. New breeding efforts by some companies may have broken the link between FD and winterhardiness. Trials in Wisconsin have shown FD varieties with high FD ratings (4-5) to be as winterhardy as varieties with lower FD ratings (2-3). If this is found to be true it could extend the Michigan growing season for alfalfa. Non-winterhardy varieties used in the West have ratings FD of 5, 6, or 7. Non-winterhardy alfalfa varieties are usually not well adapted for Michigan, even for short-term stands. While fall dormancy and winterhardiness ratings are reported by seed companies, Wisconsin is evaluating winter-survival (WSI) of several commercial varieties which is reported in (Table 6).

Important Alfalfa Diseases in Michigan

An alfalfa variety consists of a population of plants, which are genetically different from each other. Varieties are described according to the mean response of all plants, such as average yield, and as a frequency of certain types of plants, such as the percentage of plants resistant to some pest or disease. Thus, even in a "resistant" variety, only a portion of the plants will be resistant. Moderate resistance, for example, means that 15 to 30% of the plants are resistant but 70 to 85% are susceptible. Even a variety classified as resistant may suffer damage from a disease. Moderate resistance is generally considered adequate for good alfalfa production. Even resistant varieties, however, are susceptible to PRR or Pythium diseases in the seedling stage. Table 6. contains a table of disease resistance ratings for varieties evaluated for yield at MSU and a brief description follows.

Bacterial Wilt (BW). BW is present in all of Michigan. All of the named varieties sold in Michigan are adequately resistant to BW. "Common" alfalfa varieties sold by some seed companies are not recommended since the seed may be from susceptible plants.

Phytophthora Root Rot (PRR). This fungus disease, first found in Michigan in 1972, is now one of the state's most important alfalfa diseases. PRR occurs on heavy or poorly drained soils. Any soil, however, when saturated during a rainy period of seven to ten days may result in severe injury, especially to one- to two-month old seedlings. Seed companies have been treating alfalfa seed with the fungicide Apron for several years. Seed treating with Apron may be helpful in improving stands of resistant varieties. Treating a susceptible variety, such as Vernal, is probably not helpful. Most of the highest yielding varieties entered in our tests are resistant to PRR.

Anthracnose (AN). This disease, first found in Michigan in 1976, is becoming more severe each year. It occurs during hot, moist summers and is most common in the southern 1/3 of Lower Michigan. The fungus infects stems and crowns and may kill some plants. It is now recommended that only anthracnose resistant varieties be planted in Michigan.

Verticillium Wilt (VW). First detected in Michigan in 1982, VW has not increased in severity as expected. It is generally introduced with infected seed. It usually is not a problem until the third year, and then primarily in the first cutting. Growing alfalfa for three to four years in rotation with corn will help break the disease cycle. Resistance to verticillium is recommended if planting alfalfa after alfalfa.

Aphanomyces (APH) Aphanomyces euteiches is a soil-borne fungus that is similar to PRR and thrives in cool-moist conditions. It can kill or severely stunt young seedlings and causes a chronic root disease in established plants. Seedlings infected with APH will have yellow leaves (chlorosis) and gray roots and stems. There are two races of APH, alfalfa resistant to race 2 is also resistant to race 1; however, resistance to race 1 does not infer resistance to race 2. Resistance to APH should be considered when establishing alfalfa in poorly drained areas.

Stem/bulb nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) is a pest that is less common than the aforementioned but can potentially reduce older alfalfa stands. Stem nematode is a microscopic pest that occurs in the soil. Symptoms of nematode damage include stunted plants and club-like stems. Crop rotation is the best method for controlling stem nematode.

Evaluation of Other Legumes

Birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a two–cut per year perennial legume that persists in heavy and poorly drained soils. Trials evaluating birdsfoot trefoil in Lake City and East Lansing were established in 1998, 1999, and 2001. Multi-year yield averages from this trial are presented in Table 7. Thirteen varieties of red clover (Trifolium pretense) were evaluated in Michigan from 2001 to 2004 in East Lansing and Lake City. Red clover is a good species for pasture renovation or works well as a short term hay or haylage crop. Red clover produces greater yield in the seeding year than alfalfa but tends to persist only for two years. Improved varieties under proper management may persist beyond three years. Table 8 contains dry matter yield and stand rating results for trials seeded in East Lansing and Lake City in 2001 and seeding year data from the 2004 East Lansing trial. Table 9 contains data from kura (T. ambiguum), ladino (T. repens lodigens) and white clover (T. repens) trials established in Chatham, Lake City and KBS. Kura, ladino, and white clover are perennial legumes that persist well under frequent grazing, however, graziers will need to be cautious with these clovers since they have a high potential to cause bloat.

EVALUATION OF Cool-season Grass VARIETIES

Perennial Grasses

Eight species of cool-season grasses were evaluated in four locations in Michigan for forage yield, palatability, and persistence. Grasses fill an important niche in Michigan animal agriculture, however, grass species/cultivar yield and persistence comparisons have only begun to be made in Michigan. The goal of this research is to provide an unbiased evaluation of grass yield and palatability. Seven species of grasses predominate Michigan pastures. A brief description of each is provided below.

Festulolium (Festulolium braunii, K.A.) is a cross between meadow fescue and either perennial ryegrass or Italian ryegrass. This cross combines the persistence of fescue with the palatability of ryegrass. Legume/ festulolium compatibility studies are currently underway at four locations across the state.

Hard fescue (Festuca longifolia) is a short, dense, bunchgrass that is slower to establish than other cool-season grasses, but is persistent. Fine leaf blades, dense tufts and course texture would make this species a poor choice for haying, but it may be suitable in Michigan in pastures that are constantly grazed with alkaline soils.

Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) is a sod-forming perennial grass that is very palatable. It persists under frequent, close grazing and is very winterhardy. This is the lowest yielding grass species, due to shallow rooting habits which make the plant less drought tolerant.

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is a high-yielding perennial bunch grass that grows rapidly in the early spring and will out compete most other forage species in Michigan. Orchardgrass is ideal for soils with moderately poor drainage although it grows well on a wide range of soil types. Tillering occurs throughout the growing season enabling quick re-growth following harvest or grazing. Orchardgrass has similar nutritive characteristics to timothy and smooth bromegrass and should be harvested during the vegetative stages of growth prior to heading. Alfalfa and orchardgrass are often grown together in Michigan. Late maturing varieties of orchardgrass are preferred when mixed with alfalfa.

Ryegrass (Lolium perenne, hybridium L.) is a bunch grass that is high in forage quality but somewhat lower in total yield. Perennial ryegrass will persist under intensive rotational grazing and multiple harvests for hay or haylage. It is susceptible to injury when grazed as frozen forage. This species is not as winter hardy compared to other cool season grasses, however, because of its high forage quality, many farmers are using it as part of their pasture mix. Intermediate ryegrass (hybrid) is a cross between Italian (annual) and perennial ryegrasses and will often out-yield perennial ryegrass but does not persist as well as perennial ryegrass. Soils that are high in fertility and are moderately well drained are ideal for this species. Hot and dry conditions will cause dormancy in ryegrasses; therefore, supplemental irrigation can increase yields.

Smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.) is a rhizomatous, sod-forming grass that is high in forage quality and yield. Smooth bromegrass is one of the most winter hardy grasses which can be grown on a wide range of soil types. Smooth bromegrass is commonly used for grazing, hay production, and green chop. Alfalfa and red clover are legumes that are compatible with smooth bromegrass. Careful consideration needs to be made when grazing or cutting smooth brome to prevent a reduction in tillering. Smooth bromegrass should not be grazed or cut during stem elongation and early heading.

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) is a sod-forming grass that is known for good fall growth. Tall fescue persists on many soil types and may produce short rhizomes and tillers when grazed frequently. It has a high relative nutritive value when closely grazed. All varieties tested are endophyte-free. Tall fescue is a species that persists under heavy traffic from vehicles or animals.

Timothy (Phleum pratense L.) is a bunch grass that forms an open sod and persists well under high moisture conditions. It is best known for its winterhardiness and ability to survive when covered by ice. Timothy should be grown with a legume, such as alfalfa, red clover or birdsfoot trefoil. Long rest periods between harvest and grazing are required for timothy to rebuild carbohydrate reserves thus making it more suitable for a two-cut system of harvest.

During the late-summer of 2001, varieties of seven species of cool-season grasses were seeded at Chatham (Upper Peninsula Exp. Sta.), Lake City, and East Lansing,. Variety trials were also established in East Lansing in 2003/2004 and Lake City in 2003. Each of the grasses [i.e., festulolium (30 lbs./acre), hard fescue (15 lbs./acre), K. bluegrass (10 lbs./acre), orchardgrass (15 lbs./acre), perennial ryegrass (30 lbs./acre), tall fescue (15 lbs./acre), and timothy (6 lbs./acre)] were seeded in a randomized complete block design using three (Chatham, Lake City) or four replications (East Lansing). One hundred-fifty lbs. of ammonium sulfate (34-0-0) was applied at green-up and following cuts 1-3. Dry matter yields (multiyear averages) and winter injury ratings are compiled in Table 10.

Livestock producers will be able to use results of this study to select grass species for pasture improvements. Festulolium cultivars appear to exhibit a good combination of the yield characteristics of fescue and palatability of ryegrass. Livestock producers should consider this new species in their seeding mixture when reseeding pastures.

Annual Grasses

In the spring of 2002, Michigan State University began testing annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in East Lansing. Many producers in Michigan are including a forage crop in a corn-soybean rotation to improve soil tilth, reduce problematic weeds and breakup insects/nematodes. Annual ryegrass fits in well with this rotation as a “fast-starter” that can produce 5+ tons of dry matter in two to three cuttings in southern Michigan if adequate moisture is available.

Trials were established May 19, 2003 and April 19, 2005 in East Lansing to evaluate forage yield and quality of 12 annual ryegrass varieties. Varieties were seeded in a conventionally prepared seedbed at a rate of 25 lbs. PLS/acre. Nitrogen was applied prior to seeding at 50 lbs N/acre and following the first harvest (Table 11).

Statistics Explained

The statistic that may be most useful is the average or mean. Comparing selected varieties to the mean is a simple way to determine which preformed the best. The LSD (Least Significant Difference) is used to compare values within a column and is the minimum difference between two values for a “real” difference to exist. The alpha level for the LSD in these trials was 0.05 or 5%, which means, we are 95% certain that values differing by more than the LSD are not due to chance. Comparisons of varieties that were seeded in different years is not recommended due to differences in rainfall and temperatures between years.