MUNDELEIN, 111. Fertilization tops the list of critical inputs for alfalfa yields in relation to desirable percentages of crude protein, diges tible protein, and TDN (total digestible nutri ents) in dairy herd rations. Therefore, pounds per acre, nutrient con tent and longevity of stand, which add into the profit equation for dairy producers, are directly related to the amount of soil nutrients available on alfalfa acres. Sam Kincheloe, Ph.D., director of agro nomic services with IMC Fertilizer, Inc., said the need to main tain a quality stand demands nothing short of fertilization. “Reducing fertilizer inputs places alfalfa yields in a vulnerable position, impacting pro tein content and elimi nating the objective to meet nutrient require ments in dairy rations,” he said. “This lowers quality to where costly protein supplements must be added into the feeding program, increasing costs and reducing production efficiency.” He said that once crop stress from nutrient deficiencies affects the crop at an early growth stage, little can be done to reverse the potential damage. “Nutrient stress slows early growth, reduces the number of tillers per crown, and limits root development, which becomes a compound ing problem during the entire season,” said Kincheloe. “On the other hand, a well-executed program promotes vigorous growth to shorten the time to first cutting. It hastens regrowth and possibly allows for one additional cutting.” Where periods of water shortages occur, Kincheloe said healthier root systems will also reduce the stress effects on growth and quality of the forage. Potassium is the most vital nutrient for top alfalfa production m terms of pounds of nutrient needed for each ton of yield. Each ton of harvested alfalfa removes more than 60 pounds of potash. Where yield goals exceed four tons of alfalfa per acre, 250 to 300 pounds of potash per acre are necessary to replace the nutrients utilized or removed by the crop. Where potassium soil tests show medium to low levels, Kinchcloe recommends applying at least 400 pounds of potash to produce six to eight tons of forage per Stands that are potassium-deficient are more likely to face severe competition from grasses, and stand fai lure is common, said Kincheloe. 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Less Inputs Lower Field Results maintaining an adequate As a note, potassium fertility level on alfalfa deficiencies can be par produces a vigorous, ticularly limiting in deep root system that areas of heavy rainfall resists heaving during and light textured soils, freezing and thawing Phosphate demands cycles. are less in total pounds NEW TRACTORS 714 Mulch Tiller USED TRACTOR! 2WO, Soundgard, Power Shift PRICE Choose Finance Waiver To March ’93, or 6.9% Financing, Or Discount For Cash ... $1,395 ... $4,950 sBso ... $5,950 ...$3,000 (13 to 15 P 205) ot actual utilization per ton pro duced, but are just as critical for healthy stands. “This is espe cially true during early growth when roots are MAXIMIZE SAVINGS NOW ON A 9400 MAXIMIZER COMBINE ONE IN STOCK! USED HAY. 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