Smart Tips for Successful Spring Grazing of Cover Crops

By Andi Anderson

As spring arrives, calves are growing and many fields are turning green with fresh cover crops. This makes it an ideal time for farmers to review safe and effective practices for grazing these annual forages.

Cover crops offer excellent feed, but proper management is important for both plant health and cattle performance.

A general recommendation is to begin grazing when the cover crop reaches about 6 to 8 inches in height and is actively growing. This helps ensure that cattle have enough forage to graze without stressing the plants.

If you plan to allow regrowth for a second grazing round, it is best to remove livestock when the plants are grazed down to around 4 inches. Another easy way to check if the crop is ready is through the “pluck test.” Simply pinch the plant between your fingers and pull upward gently. If the plant pulls out by the roots, it is too early to graze and more growth is needed.

Farmers should avoid grazing during wet conditions to reduce soil compaction and protect root systems. Having a designated sacrifice area can be useful when fields are too soft. Moving water tanks and mineral feeders regularly can also prevent cows from creating muddy, compacted loafing spots.

Strip grazing is a helpful method to get the most from limited forage. Rotational grazing can also improve utilization, although the short time window for spring grazing may limit how many rotations are practical.

After the grazing period is finished, allow at least a week for regrowth before terminating the cover crop. Farmers may also choose to plant green and terminate with herbicide afterward, remembering to follow all label guidelines and crop tolerance information.

Young, leafy cover crops may be low in fiber and high in moisture. For this reason, offering supplemental feed can help cattle meet their daily intake needs.

It is also important to stay aware of potential nitrate or sulfur toxicity, especially when weather or soil conditions increase the risk. Adjusting management practices can help prevent health problems.

Providing a good mineral program is an essential final step. Cattle should receive a mineral mix with adequate magnesium at least two weeks before turnout, particularly if they are lactating. Proper mineral support helps keep animals healthy as they graze lush spring forage.

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