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Cows in a field with text 'From the Agronomy Team'

Cristie Preston, Ph.D.

When it comes to many tall fescue pastures in the Midwest, the presence of broomsedge – a native perennial and invasive species in pasture – can be a sign of low phosphorus. Whether those levels are actually low or merely unavailable due to a low soil pH, tall fescue yield and quality can be negatively affected by high amounts of broomsedge.

A recent article in Crop, Forage, and Turfgrass Management looked at the additions of phosphorus, lime, and their combination to tall fescue pastures to discourage broomsedge growth. A single phosphorus application of 50 pounds per acre was applied in the first year. Broomsedge presence was assessed every year for three years.

Phosphorus application decreased broomsedge stand percentage and increased tall fescue percentage. Similarly, lime application had the same impact. Applying both lime and phosphorus produced the best outcome – minimizing broomsedge and maximizing tall fescue percentage.

Impact of lime and phosphorus application on broomsedge and tall fescue stand in established pasture.