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New! Agricultural Testing Services

Eragrostis tef - Is it a Viable Forage Alternative? by Jim Johnson
  Eragrostis tef is a warm-season annual grass from Ethiopia related to lovegrass. It has historically been grown in northern Africa for the seed, which is used to make bread. In the United States, teff is being promoted for forage and grain.
 
A Weed Wiper is Good for You, Bad For Weeds by Jim Johnson
  Many people are unfamiliar with wiper or wick applicators. The concept is simple. Herbicide solution is supplied to an absorbent surface. The herbicide soaked surface only contacts weeds taller than the crop. Chemical is transferred to the surface of the weeds as the applicator "wipes" over them.
 
Agricultural Testing Services Has Moved by Jerry Rogers
  There have been many recent changes affecting the Agriculture Testing Services (ATS). In July we moved one-half mile west from our cramped quarters on The Noble Foundation's campus to a much larger facility that was formerly a Pepsi Cola bottling plant. We have expanded our office and sample preparation area, and the new arrangement facilitates efficient use of our sample-processing machinery.
 
All I Want for Christmas is a Soil Sample from You ... by Eddie Funderburg
  A recent analysis of our cooperators' soil test data from 1999 to 2003 highlights the necessity of collecting soil samples in order to do a good job of fertilizing and liming.
 
All I Want For Christmas... by Jim Johnson
  Useful items for soils and crops managers and specialists.
 
Any Miracle Products Out There? by Eddie Funderburg
  Do any of the advertised "miracle" soil concoctions actually work?
 
Apply Variety Test Information to Your Farm by Wade Thomason
  Variety tests provide us with valuable information about new genetics as they become available and how they compare to old standards that have been around for years. How does a producer use all this information to make a decision about what to plant?
 
Are Grasshoppers and Armyworms in Your Future? by Jim Johnson
  This fall, we may see an outbreak of armyworms and/or grasshoppers. If you have lush green winter pasture - or any pasture, for that matter - it may be a prime target.
 
At the Mercy of the Weather by Wadell Altom
  A fertilization study was conducted on bermudagrass grown at the Noble Foundation's Pasture Demonstration Farm. Our data shows a definite relationship between rainfall and forage production and suggests that rainfall received during the growing season is critical.
 
Back to Basics: The Roles of N, P, K and Their Sources by Jeff Ball
  I want to use this article to address commonly asked questions regarding the role of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in plants and outline the characteristics of their primary fertilizer sources.
 
Banding Phosphorus Fertilizer Increases Production by Wade Thomason
  Banding phosphorus fertilizer with small grain seed at planting is an efficient and easy way to supply the nutrient.
 
Basic Keys to Effective Weed Management by James Locke
6 ratings:
  Four keys to an effective weed management program are knowing the types of weeds present, the problems they cause, estimating their economic thresholds and knowing their available management options.
 
Be Smart With Your Fertilizer Dollar by Jeff Ball
  Nitrogen (N) is directly related to yield. Have you ever heard this statement from your fertilizer dealer? Without any other limiting factors, as you increase the nitrogen rate you increase yields of non-legume crops.
 
Before Planting Your Grain Sorghum by Jeff Ball
  Planning and preparing a crop management plan, covering everything from hybrid selection to weed control, will lower risk while increasing overall production.
 
Below the Surface: Some Facts About Soil Compaction by Wade Thomason
  Soil compaction – which occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space between particles and pushing out air – can be a serious problem for agricultural producers.
 
Boom Sprayer Calibration by James Locke
  This publication details how to calibrate boom sprayers using the ounce calibration method.
 
Boomless Sprayer Calibration by James Locke
  This publication details how to calibrate boomless sprayers.
 
Brush Control without Spraying Leaves by Eddie Funderburg
10 ratings:
  Some people want to control brush, but don't have a sprayer, have too much brush to use a sprayer or just want to do selective brush control. There are several options, each with advantages and disadvantages.
 
Changes are Coming to Agriculture Testing Services by Jerry Rogers
  The total number of forage, hay and feed samples processed by ATS in 1998 were up 1.82 percent over the average (3,625) of the past three years. Soil sample numbers (3,146) were down 1.17 percent for the same time frame. These numbers seem to indicate that the past year's harsh weather conditions had little affect on the sample counts.
 
Choosing a Nitrogen Source for Fall - Topdressing Small Grain by Jerry Rogers
  If you want fall-early winter small-grain forage production, you can choose the nitrogen source for topdressing fall small-grain pasture by cost, availability and convenience.
 
Cleaner Summer Pastures Begin in Fall by James Locke
  Every summer, we are asked about controlling big weeds in pastures. But, by the time we get the question, most of the damage is done and options are limited.
 
Consider These Items Before Spraying by Eddie Funderburg
  Spring has arrived, and many ranchers' thoughts turn to killing weeds. Before you hook up the trusty (or in some cases, rusty) sprayer and give 'er a go, think about the these things.
 
Consider These Things Before Sprigging Bermudagrass This Spring by Jeff Ball
  Sprigging bermudagrass is an expensive investment, but, if done correctly, it will quickly pay for itself.
 
Cropping Alternatives by Scott Landgraf
  No doubt forage crops are gaining popularity along with beef production. It seems a sizable portion of the land of this area is well adapted to forage production rather than high input crop production. I would like to address crop selection for the deeper, more highly productive soils.
 
Determining Nutrient Supplying Ability of Soils by Scott Landgraf
  Determining the nutrient supplying ability of soils can guide decisions that may make the difference between profit and loss. Technology offers sophisticated electronic tools to manage farming in a site specific manner. Large data files contain soil test results and production records providing information for making accurate electronic decisions.
 
Did You Calibrate Your Sprayer This Year? by James Locke
  There are many good methods for calibration, but they all have the same purpose - to determine the volume or gallons per acre a sprayer is applying. Without knowing the volume applied, we cannot know how much chemical to add to the tank to control the target weed or insect and stay within legal rate limits.
 
Do Nitrogen Fertilizer Source and Application Timing Make A Difference? by Jeff Ball
  In 1985, Wadell Altom, Jerry Rogers (both previous soil and crops specialists) and Bret Flatt (senior research assistant) initiated a research project northwest of Ardmore, Okla., on the Pasture Demonstration Farm to evaluate nitrogen fertilizer source and timing of application. This is an analysis of the results.
 
Do You Need to Topdress Winter Pasture? by Jeff Ball
  Two things that will affect the need for topdressing winter pasture with nitrogen (N) fertilizer in the spring are drought this fall and the amount of N fertilizer applied at or since planting.
 
Don't Overlook Role of Potassium by Jeff Ball
  Several new research and demonstration projects are slated to start on 2004.
 
Don't Use Calendar Dates to Terminate Wheat Grazing by Jeff Ball
  Using a calendar date to pull cattle off wheat pasture is risky because a number of variables affect jointing, including weather conditions, variety and planting date. To avoid grain yield loss, all grazing should stop at first hollow stem or "jointing."
 
Drilling Mud - Application to Pasture and Farmland by David Annis
13 ratings:
  Lately it seems that those of us in the soils and crops discipline have received more questions about land application of drilling mud or "mud farming."
 
Eastern Red Cedar is Public Enemy Number One by Jim Johnson
  Eastern red cedar, which is native to Oklahoma, historically was controlled by fires. Since that isn't the case anymore, land that was once open prairie is covered with cedar and no longer provides grazing for livestock.
 
Even With High Nitrogen Prices, Proper Fertilization Pays by Eddie Funderburg
  Fertilizer prices are high, but proper fertilization of forages can still provide less expensive feed than the alternatives.
 
Fertilization Helps Increase the Efficiency of Rainfall by Wade Thomason
  Proper fertilization affects the efficiency with which bermudagrass uses rainfall during the growing season.
 
Fertilization of Tall Fescue by Scott Landgraf
  Fertilization of established fescue offers an opportunity for cattle producers to generate inexpensive cool season forage.
 
Fertilizer - Buy the numbers... by David Annis
4 ratings:
  Lately, forage producers have seen the cost of fertilizer increase sharply. Let's look at how to determine the "true" cost of nitrogen by fertilizer source.
 
Fertilizer Forecast 2008 - Prices Still Climbing! by David Annis
6 ratings:
  Some expert observers of the fertilizer market have estimated that there may be another 20 percent increase in price by spring 2008.
 
Fertilizing Bermudagrass by Eddie Funderburg and Jeff Ball
  This brochure discusses the proper way to fertilize bermudagrass depending on the producer's goals.
 
Fertilizing Winter Pastures - Does it Pay? by Eddie Funderburg
14 ratings:
  Since fertilizer prices remain at all-time highs, many producers ponder the question, "Is it worth it to fertilize winter pasture?" I'll try to answer that in the space below.
 
Fire Ants: The Invasion Continues by Eddie Funderburg
  The number of fire ants seems to have increased noticeably in south central Oklahoma in the last couple of years, and the number calls and complaints the Noble Foundation receives have skyrocketed.
 
Follow This Checklist for Growing Winter Pasture by Eddie Funderburg
  Most winter pasture fields are planted in late August or early September to optimize the potential for getting grazing in the fall; having a plan made beforehand can eliminate possible mistakes at planting time.
 
Forage Fertilization Considerations by Wadell Altom
  Fertilizer application decisions are just one part of the total management required to operate the farm or ranch utilizing good business principles. As you estimate total forage needs and how to provide them at the least cost, all options should be considered.
 
Foundation Changes Soil Testing Methods by Wade Thomason
  The Noble Foundation is changing the method used to measure phosphorus content in its soil tests.
 
Generic vs. Name-brand Herbicides: Which Is Best for Your Operation? by Wade Thomason
  Choosing the correct chemical for the job is essential, but keeping up with changing chemical brand names, especially with all the generics on the market today is a difficult chore.
 
Get Your Sprayer Ready Now by Jim Johnson
  It will be spraying season before we know it, so now is a good time to get your sprayer ready to go.
 
Glance 'N Go: A Simple Scouting Method for Greenbugs by James Locke
3 ratings:
  Greenbugs are a species of aphid that can reproduce rapidly when the temperature is above 55°F. The insects reduce yields by sucking plant juices from the leaves and killing them or potentially transmitting diseases.
 
Goats and Weed Control by Jim Johnson and Robert Wells
10 ratings:
  With costs on the rise, many landowners are seeking less expensive alternatives to mechanical or chemical weed control in pastures. One natural method to achieve this goal is to stock goats to consume unwanted brush and weeds.
 
Got Lime? by Jim Johnson
  There are some things to consider when purchasing lime. The two most important are the calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE) and the fineness efficiency.
 
Grasshoppers: Will This Be a Big Year? by James Locke
  Grasshoppers are considered an intermittent problem in Oklahoma and North Texas pastures. However, when they are present in large numbers, the damage can be severe.
 
How Efficient are Your Bermudagrass Fertilizer Applications? by Wadell Altom
  We could go into a discussion about soil testing, yield goals and productive potential of the soil, but this article is limited to efficient nitrogen rates. Research and observations have indicated that a certain amount of nitrogen must be applied to satisfy requirements of other plant parts before additional forage is produced.
 
How Much Detail Do You Know About Your Soil? by Wadell Altom
  Those of you that have attended an NF Grazing School or New Cooperator Seminar have heard a discussion about doing a soil inventory. A soil inventory is simply an organized method of collecting and listing selected properties and potentials of the different soils contained within the boundaries of your farm or ranch.
 
How Much Does It Cost to Mow Weeds? by Jeff Ball
  Have you ever stopped to think about what it costs to mow a pasture? Mowing is costly, and pastures that have weed problems this late in the growing season have no chance for optimum weed control.
 
How Much Nitrogen for Ryegrass and Small Grain? by Wadell Altom
  By the time you read this many of you will have realized the ryegrass or small grain you planted in August, September or October did not produce much forage. There were many reasons such as: it came up and was killed by excessive heat, the grasshoppers ate it or the army worms killed it. Some of you replanted in late October or waited until late October to plant the first time.
 
Improve Your Bottom Line with Integrated Crop Management by James Locke
  Integrated Crop Management (ICM) is an approach to farming or ranching that aims to balance production factors with economic and environmental considerations.
 
Inventory Weeds Now for Control Next Year by Eddie Funderburg
  Summer is a good time to identify problem weeds and work out a weed-control plan for the following year.
 
Is Fertilizer Worth the Cost? by James Locke
6 ratings:
  With continued high costs, producers are asking if it is worth applying fertilizer. To borrow a line from our economist friends, "it depends."
 
Is it Really a Good Deal??? by Wadell Altom
  We have received calls about herbicides for sale on the phone. In one instance the product name used was not listed in any references we have available and our university contacts had no information. Claims about the potential results from the product seemed too good to be true.
 
Is My Fertilizer Still There? by Eddie Funderburg
  One of the most common inquiries I get around this time of year in very dry years goes like this: "I put out fertilizer on my pasture this spring, and it hasn't rained much. I've had very little grass growth. Is the fertilizer still there? If so, how long will it stay there?" The quick answer is it's probably still there. The more informative answer is a bit more involved, but I'll try to explain it as simply as possible.
 
Is There a Future for Ammonium Nitrate? by Eddie Funderburg
  All these new regulations and laws are likely to have the effect of making ammonium nitrate both less available and more expensive relative to other nitrogen fertilizer products. What does this mean to you?
 
Is Winter Small Grain Production for You? by James Locke
4 ratings:
  With winter small grain (wheat, rye, triticale) prices near or above all-time highs, producers need to consider adding these crops to their enterprise. Before they try to enter this market, they must be sure they can produce the crop and get it to a profitable market.
 
It's Time to Consider Fertilizing Pecans by James Locke
  Native pecan production in Oklahoma and north Texas is often considered a "Christmas bonus." If folks are fortunate enough to make a crop, it's great, but not something they have much control over.
 
It's Time to Top-dress Winter Pasture by Jim Johnson
  February is typically the time when top-dress applications of N are made to small grains for graze out or for grain harvest.
 
Management of Salt-Affected Soils by Jagadeesh Mosali
  If you see white surface crusting in areas of your fields, or if you see some areas that are wetter than others after a few days of rain, this could be an indication of a salt-affected soil.
 
Mechanical Tools for Eastern Red Cedar Control Evaluated by Jim Johnson
  The other day, I thought to myself, "What if all the land area covered by Eastern red cedar was covered with thistles?" Since most thistles are listed as noxious weeds in Oklahoma and most other states as well, I believe there would be a great amount of action taken to control them. In my opinion, cedars are every bit as noxious as thistles, if not worse, and they are invading our land.
 
Mind Your P's and K's by Jeff Ball
  Most fertilization articles you read discuss nitrogen management. But what about the importance of phosphorus and potassium fertilization?
 
Modifying Spot Sprayers for Broadcast Pasture/Lawn Use by Eddie Funderburg and Jeff Ball
  This publication will guide you through the necessary steps to create a boom attachment for a spot sprayer.
 
More About Yield Goals by Wadell Altom
  We have written about the importance of yield goals but believe a review is needed. Those of you who have soils tested and want a fertilizer recommendation know that the expected yield (yield goal) has almost the same influence on the fertilizer recommendation as the soil test values. In many instances, the testing facility personnel assume a yield goal or send only the test results to the sample owner if they receive no yield goal with the soil sample.
 
Nitrogen Carry-over for Spring Production by Jerry Rogers
  Early February is the time to determine whether to apply additional nitrogen for spring production of small grain forage or grain. In early winter, producers frequently ask our soil fertility specialists how much of the nitrogen applied the previous fall to small grain pastures is available for spring forage or grain production.
 
Nitrogen Fertilization of Small Grains for Pasture by Randy Boman
  Forage yield data from a replicated nitrogen (N) experiment on a rye/wheat/ryegrass mixture established by Jerry Rogers and Wadell Altom on the Red River Farm in the 1970's show that the response to applied N is linear up to the highest rate used (200 lbs of actual N per acre).
 
Nitrogen Fertilizer Cost Per Cow by Jeff Ball
13 ratings:
  Fertilizer prices are at a historic high, and, with the amount of corn acres predicted in 2008, the outlook is that prices will climb even higher next spring. So, at what nitrogen fertilizer price is it no longer economical to fertilize bermudagrass in a cow/calf enterprise?
 
Nitrogen Fertilizer Giveaway, Part II by Jim Johnson
7 ratings:
  Between 2003 and 2006, a project was conducted on the Noble Foundation Headquarters Farm to demonstrate the possibility and practicality of pasturing stockers on bermudagrass while using legumes instead of nitrogen fertilizer.
 
Nitrogen For Spring Small Grain Forage by Jerry Rogers
  This is the time of year to apply nitrogen (N) for spring small grain forage production. Many of the phone calls we receive this time of year concern the amount of N that is needed for spring forage production.
 
Nitrogen Status of Winter Pasture by Scott Landgraf
  By taking soil samples during the fallow period, soil nitrate nitrogen levels can be appraised with a great degree of confidence. Due to the instability of soil nitrogen, even the residual levels identified by soil test often change before plants utilize the applied or mineralized nitrogen.
 
Nitrogen Timing for Winter Pasture - Does it Matter? by Eddie Funderburg
  Timing of nitrogen application will obviously be different if you run only spring stockers versus in both the fall and the spring. How much difference does it make? To answer that, I'd like to share some data from our Red River Research Farm at Burneyville, Okla.
 
Nitrogen-Rich Strips - A New Way to Determine N Fertilizer Requirements by Jeff Ball and Jagadeesh Mosali
  One method to determine nitrogen fertilizer requirements uses nitrogen-rich strips to supplement the use of yield goals as a basis for making fertilizer recommendations.
 
No-Till, Conventional Till Small Grain Forage Yields Equal by Jim Johnson
  During the 2003 to 2006 growing seasons, the Noble Foundation conducted research at the Pasture Demonstration Farm northwest of Ardmore, Okla., to determine the effects of no-till and conventional management on small grain forage yields.
 
Noble Foundation Agriculture Testing Services by Jerry Rogers
  A representative soil sample is of great economic benefit in crop and forage production. Applying a fertilizer or soil amendment that is not needed, excessive, or not enough to reach the intended yield goal is costly.
 
Noble Foundation Evaluates... by Jim Johnson
  The Noble Foundation conducted summer annual forage small plot variety trials during the summers of 2001 through 2004 in Ardmore, Okla. Here is a discussion of those evaluations, plus an update on the evaluation of tools for cutting cedar trees.
 
Phosphorus Levels Can Affect Nitrogen's Impact on Forage Production by James Rogers
  A lack of phosphorus in the soil directly affects forage production.
 
Plan for Drought's Effects in 2007 by Eddie Funderburg
  Severe drought made 2006 one of the worst years on record for pastures and crops in our area, and some of the effects of the drought will still be felt in 2007.
 
Plant Variety Protection Law Enforcement Stepped Up: What Can You Do? by Jim Johnson
  What does the plant variety protection (PVP) and seed law mean to you? It means it is not legal to buy, sell or trade a PVP-protected variety or plant it without the proper paperwork.
 
Poultry Litter for Fertilizer by Eddie Funderburg
3 ratings:
  There has been increased interest in using poultry litter as fertilizer since fertilizer prices have skyrocketed. Poultry litter has long been used near the point of production, but high transportation costs for its low analysis has limited its use to within about 50 miles of poultry houses.
 
Probability of Obtaining Expected Results by Wadell Altom
5 ratings:
  When purchasing an agricultural production input or implementing some other management practice, how often do you ask about the probability of obtaining the expected response?
 
Proceedings of the First Weeping Lovegrass Symposium by R.L. Dalrymple
  Conference proceedings from the April 1970 conference.
 
Producing Quality Bermudagrass for the Horse Industry by Jeff Ball
3 ratings:
  Southern Oklahoma and north Texas have become popular locations for the horse industry, which is primarily due to the major shows hosted annually in Ft. Worth, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. As a result, there is an ever-increasing demand for high-quality bermudagrass hay.
 
Proper Management of Bermudagrass for Hay Helps Assure a Positive Return by Jeff Ball
  Fertilizer, swathing, raking, baling and labor expenses can push the cost of haying bermudagrass up to $30/ton or more. With that kind of investment, it's important to implement proper management to assure a positive return.
 
Protect Yourself from High N Fertilizer Costs by Jeff Ball
  This fall, the price of natural gas will not change much, and therefore N fertilizer prices will not be impacted. However, next spring it may.
 
Residual Nitrogen Could Lower Fertilizer Bills by Jeff Ball
  Soil testing pays, and I am certain you've heard this statement from one of Noble's soil and crops specialists before. We already have begun seeing soil test results with high residual nitrogen. These levels have been high enough at times to cause us to not recommend nitrogen fertilization for fall/winter pasture forage production.
 
Rye Planting in Red River Crabgrass by R.L. Dalrymple
  With over 25 years on record, the field of doublecrop winter pasture and crabgrass on the Noble Foundation Pasture Demonstration Farm has the longest consecutive production that I know of. We have researched and trial and error studied, numerous combinations and methods of managing the doublecrop.
 
Rye-Wheat-Ryegrass Nitrogen Rate Study by Jerry Rogers
  This is the first year of results after applying 2.5 tons lime to the long term Rye-Wheat-Ryegrass nitrogen rate study at the Red River Research Farm.
 
Ryegrass: It's Not a Weed Anymore by Jim Johnson
  In light of the recent increased enforcement of the Plant Variety Protection Act, farmers and ranchers need options for affordably producing winter pasture for stocker cattle. One option is ryegrass.
 
Saving for a Rainy Day by Rob Self
  We can't control the amount or timing of rain. But, by managing the land, we can capture as much as possible to grow grass and recharge ground water when it does rain.
 
Should Nitrogen be applied on Bermudagrass and Old World Bluestem this month? by Wadell Altom
  In early August you should evaluate your existing forage supply and the amount of forage needed from then until next spring. If additional forage is needed, consider applying nitrogen to increase the standing forage or purchase hay.
 
Sod Seeding Small Grain Pasture into Dry Bermudagrass by Jeff Ball
  Small grain pasture will provide a source of high quality forage, which will supplement or even substitute for hay to carry your herd to next spring. In addition, the bermudagrass sod furnishes solid footing for cattle through wet periods of the season. Sod-seeding permits small grains to be grown in areas where seedbed preparation would not be feasible.
 
Soil Acidity Solution by Jeff Ball
  One of the most common and overlooked limitations in crop production is soil acidity. With the cultivation of the land and the harvest of high yielding crops, soil acidity has gradually increased and is becoming a problem throughout the region.
 
Soil Aeration by Scott Landgraf
  Soil aeration is a common topic in most pasture management discussions. Quickly, testimonials will surface for both sides of the aeration issue. Since there is very little data to support either side, it creates an interesting topic for discussion. Actually, as with most agricultural practices, "It Depends".
 
Soil and Water Relationships by Jeff Ball
  By understanding a little about soil's physical properties and its relationship to moisture, you can make better soil-management decisions.
 
Soil Fertility Specialists Need Information to make Recommendations by Jim Johnson
  A doctor needs certain information to make a correct diagnosis. When "diagnosing" soil samples, soil fertility specialists also need certain information in order to make recommendations.
 
Soil Fertility: Put It All Together by Jim Johnson
  I've assembled six steps - from start to finish - that I think are essential for any soil fertility program.
 
Soil Management Notes by Wadell Altom
  Our Soil Fertility and Crop Specialists recently attended a meeting where folks from university extension and research departments and industry discussed current issues related to agricultural production. I decided to use this space to relay some of the major discussion points.
 
Soil Sampling is the Key to a Good Test by Eddie Funderburg
  Soil test results are only as good as the soil sample that is sent to the lab – so here are some tips for taking a good sample and an explanation of why each component of taking the sample is important.
 
Soil Sampling Pan Instructions and Diagram by Jeff Ball
  Diagram of and instruction to construct a soil sampling pan.
 
Soil Test Before Land Purchase by Jim Johnson
  Many things besides productivity may drive a buyer's decision for purchasing a particular parcel of land – however, if more than one parcel is an option, a soil test can be worth its weight in gold in determining the better buy.
 
Soil Test Results: What Do They Mean? by Jim Johnson
  An explanation of what the numbers in a soil test mean.
 
Soil Testing Makes Money by Eddie Funderburg
  Tips for the successful use of liquid supplements.
 
Soils and Crops Dictionary by Jim Johnson and David Annis
  This dictionary lists words and terms commonly used in the agriculture sector in the southern Great Plains.
 
Some Thoughts on Soil Aeration of Pastureland by Jeff Ball
  Soil fertility specialists at the Noble Foundation are frequently asked about the soil aeration of pastureland. I felt that Dr. Carl S. Hoveland summarized how we feel about this subject. This article is reprinted with his permission.
 
Spray or Fertilize? by Eddie Funderburg
7 ratings:
  With higher fertilizer and herbicide prices, a common question we get involves whether you get a "bigger bang for the buck" from fertilizer or herbicides on introduced pastures. Ideally you would use both on introduced pastures that have weed problems, but input prices have made this a less than ideal world in pasture management.
 
Stand Establishment, Soil Fertility, Pest Management Key to Productive Alfalfa by Jeff Ball
  Proper management of alfalfa is essential not only for sustaining high-level forage production, but for stand longevity.
 
Start Planning Now for Effective Bermudagrass Pasture Weed Control by James Locke
  Weeds reduce yields by competing with grass for available sunlight, nutrients and water; drive up costs by reducing fertilizer use efficiency and requiring additional inputs; reduce forage quality and palatability; lower nutrient content and could even be toxic. The question is, what are you going to do about it?
 
Stockpiling Bermudagrass for Late Fall/Winter Grazing by Jeff Ball
  Now is the time to start thinking about forage management for next fall and winter. Whenever winter forage management is discussed, most people think of feeding hay or utilizing small grain pasture. Have you ever considered using bermudagrass as dry-standing forage from late November though January? In most years, when conditions are right it can easily be done.
 
Stretch Your Input Dollars by Eddie Funderburg
  December can be a fairly slow month regarding soil and crops issues, and it may be a good time to plan your strategy for the use of fertilizer and herbicides in 2006.
 
Sulfur Fertilizer - It Depends by Jim Johnson
  In a time of record high fertilizer and commodity prices, should you apply sulfur (S) fertilizer? Well, an economist would say, "It depends." As an agronomist, I would have to agree with them. Some critical factors for applying S fertilizer are S soil test level, soil type, yield goal for the crop, amount of nitrogen fertilizer being applied and the amount of S obtained from rain, irrigation and other sources.
 
Take Advantage of Available Soil Moisture by Jeff Ball
9 ratings:
  Excess rainfall this summer may have caused a few problems with hay harvest, but there has not been too much complaining. The wet summer has provided excellent soil moisture conditions for both warm-season and cool-season forage production this fall.
 
Take the Mystery Out of Forage Production by David Annis
  How many of us have been scared by the fertilizer recommendation on our soil test results? To grow introduced forages to meet livestock demand or yield goal, it is important to fertilize according to a soil test recommendation.
 
The Ability of Legumes by Scott Landgraf
  The ability of legumes to fix nitrogen has long been a fascination to forage producers. The nitrogen released from nodules benefits plants and increases forage production. Due to the hot and dry summers we have, annual legumes perform best in the Ardmore area.
 
The Secret to Success by Jim Johnson
  There is no magic formula for success in crop and forage production. The key is to pay attention to the basics.
 
Think Before Applying Fertilizer by Eddie Funderburg
  Some producers apply the same amount of fertilizer on all their land. Some fertilize their poorer quality soils more heavily. Others spend the majority of their fertilizer money on their best soils. What is the best strategy?
 
Tips for Coping With The High Cost Of Fertilizer by James Locke
  As everyone has no doubt noticed, fertilizer prices have shot through the roof over the last year. Producers must first have an idea of base fertility reserves and soil pH. Without this basic information, every other fertility decision is only a guess. With careful planning and attention to all the details, fertilization can still produce the lowest-cost forage available.
 
To Combat Effects of Drought on Bermudagrass, Fertility and Weed Control are Key by Jeff Ball
  Weed control is going to be critical this spring following the drought. Bermudagrass has suffered greatly since last fall, and, with its lack of vigor, weeds will be competitive this spring.
 
To Fertilize or Not to Fertilize??? by Wadell Altom
  The real answer to this question depends on many factors such as your goals for the enterprise, soil type, fertility status of the soil, weather and so on. Another question could be how many cows or other livestock are needed for an economical enterprise? Perhaps you have the wrong enterprise if profit is the primary goal.
 
Top 10 Liming Questions by Jeff Ball
  Answers to commonly asked questions about liming.
 
Top 7 Reasons Pasture Weed Control Programs Don't Work by Eddie Funderburg
  This month, I want to identify and briefly discuss the top seven reasons I see that pasture weed control programs don't work as well as they should.
 
Understanding and Correcting Soil Acidity by Jeff Ball
  This fact sheet talks about acidity's causes and corrections, the amount of lime needed to raise the pH, and the length of time liming takes to work.
 
Understanding and Preventing Aflatoxin Poisoning by Jeff Ball
  Heat and drought encourage growth of the fungi that produce aflatoxins. Learn what this poison does to livestock and what levels are acceptable in feed.
 
Understanding and Preventing Aflatoxin Poisoning by Jeff Ball
  Aflatoxins are poisonous by-products produced from the fungi Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. These fungi are found in the soil and are responsible for decomposition of plant materials.
 
Understanding Phosphorus Behavior in Soils by Wade Thomason
  Phosphorus is an essential element for plant growth. If soil test phosphorus levels are low, we must supply additional fertilizer phosphorus to successfully achieve high crop yields.
 
Urea: A Risky Alternative by Jerry Rogers
  Granular or prilled urea is used extensively as a nitrogen source. When urea is put on a moist soil, it dissolves and in the presence of urease, a naturally occurring enzyme, is transformed to ammonium carbonate.
 
Use These Late-Season Weed, Brush Control Strategies by Jeff Ball
  A management strategy to consider in the fall is the control of several hard-to-handle perennial weeds – field bindweed, Johnsongrass, bermudagrass, Sericea lespedeza and brush.
 
Using In-Season Response for Effective Management of Nitrogen Fertilizer in Bermudagrass Hay Pastures by Jagadeesh Mosali
  Bermudagrass is responsive to nitrogen fertilization. New technologies allow for more efficient fertilizer application and decreased production costs.
 
Variable Fertilizer Rate Research Project by Jerry Rogers
  The Noble Foundation is helping fund Oklahoma State University's variable fertilizer rate research project. In addition to supplying grant funds, the Noble Foundation Agricultural Division also furnishes land for variable rate research at both the Headquarters Farm and the Red River Demonstration and Research Farm.
 
Weed Control in Wheat for Grain by Jim Johnson
  With current commodity prices, there is much more interest in growing wheat for grain. This means that the cool-season annual grasses that were used as forage when fields were grazed and/or hayed are now weeds that need to be controlled.
 
Weigh Pros, Cons When Choosing Summer Nitrogen Source by James Locke
  Deciding what source to use for summer nitrogen can be difficult, because each has its pros and cons. The deciding factor for most producers is their tolerance for risk versus the cost for each type of nitrogen fertilizer.
 
What Can Soil Testing Do Well? by Eddie Funderburg
  Soil testing is a good tool, but it's not perfect. Knowing the limitations of soil testing can help producers make the best use of the test results.
 
What Does Organic Matter Do In Soil? by Eddie Funderburg
3 ratings:
  Organic matter serves as a reservoir of nutrients and water in the soil, aids in reducing compaction, and increases water infiltration. Yet, it's often ignored and neglected.
 
What Does This Number Mean? by Jim Johnson
  What do the numbers on this soil test report mean? It is a question I hear often, so don't feel alone if you have asked it.
 
What Is a Soil Test Worth to You? by Jim Johnson
  There are two ways to measure the value of a soil test – one way is to look at the cost of lost production from inefficient fertilizer use, and another is to look at potential cost savings if over-fertilization is stopped.
 
What to Expect from Spring Small-Grain Pasture by Jeff Ball
  Forage yields should be high this spring. Excess rainfall has provided enough moisture to support spring forage production through graze-out.
 
What You Need to Know About Plant Variety Protection by Jeff Ball
  Farmers who buy illegally sold seed are subject to litigation, so be certain that any seed sold is not protected.
 
What's the Effect of Nitrogen Rate and Timing of Application on Stockpiled Bermudagrass? by Jeff Ball
  Feeding hay through the winter accounts for a large portion of the costs associated with cow-calf production, so forage management strategies to lengthen the grazing season and reduce hay consumption could be beneficial in increasing profitability.
 
Why Are Nitrogen Prices So High? by Eddie Funderburg
  Nitrogen fertilizer prices have been high for several months now. In some cases, the price has gone up 50 percent or more. Why is it increasing?
 
Will Nitrogen Applications Affect the Distribution of Bermudagrass Forage Production? by Wadell Altom
  We often discuss bermudagrass as being a very "short season" forage plant but I did not realize how short it can be until I reviewed some yield data.
 
You Can't Afford Not to Lime by Jim Johnson
  To get the most out of your nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients, pH must be at the proper levels.
 
You'd Better Watch Out ... Fertilizer Thieves are Coming to Town by Eddie Funderburg
  Certain people use fertilizer for reasons other than increasing crop yield – namely for explosives and for drug manufacturing. Fertilizer theft is an increasing problem, but agricultural producers can take steps to protect their fertilizer stores from thieves.
 
Your Soil Report - Where Does It Come From? by Randy Boman
  Although the soil testing analytical procedures are completed by the private laboratory, all recommendations are made by Noble Foundation soil fertility specialists.
 
Other Pasture, Forage & Soil topics are covered in our Ag News & Views Newsletter and in the Forage Improvement Division section of our website.

Soils & Crops Specialists at the Noble Foundation

 

  
         
       
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