WSU Extension Q&A: What are the key components of forage quality?

Q. What are the key components of forage quality?

A. In terms of hay or pasture grass, forage quality is determined by knowing the crude protein level as well as the digestibility. High-quality forages (with high levels of crude protein) provide for the nitrogen requirement of the rumen microbes of cattle so that the microbes can digest the forage in the rumen more efficiently. In doing so, the cows will eat more forage and that coupled with the increase in digestibility, more energy is delivered to the cow. It is this interrelationship between protein, intake, digestibility, and ultimately energy delivery that drives productivity in cows on forage diets.

Q. I have old vegetable seeds from previous gardening seasons. How can I tell if the seeds will still be useable next season or if I need to order a fresh supply?

A. Dampen a paper towel and place it in a plastic sandwich container. Place a small amount of the seeds in question on the wet paper towel and close the lid. Place that container in a dark place such as a kitchen drawer. After 7-10 days, seeds that are still viable will have sprouted. If your seed germination is low, you can either order new seed, or adjust the rate that you seed to achieve your desired plant stand. Remember to keep all seeds that you plan to use in a dark, dry, cool location.

Q. 4-H is something we’ve talked about being a part of. When is a good time to join and how do I do that?

A. The 4-H year runs Oct. 1 through Sept. 30. The best time to join is October to December; however, it is not too late. Between Oct. 1 and Feb. 28, you can join 4-H for only the state management fee of $25. From March 1 through May 31, you can still join 4-H, but there is a local late enrollment fee of an additional $25 if you would like to participate in local fairs and shows. After June 1, you can join 4-H, but not be eligible to participate in the local fairs and shows this 4-H year, as one part of 4-H is learning mastery in your project area and joining that late in the year doesn’t allow youth the opportunity to be successful with mastery in their project area.

This story was originally published February 3, 2018 at 1:51 PM with the headline "WSU Extension Q&A: What are the key components of forage quality?."