Growing
How to Seed / Custom Seeding
Generally speaking, the most common time to seed is in the fall or spring. However, the proper time depends on your geographic region, soil moisture and if you are planting a legume or a grass crop. Improper seed depth makes it hard for your crop to be successful in the germination process.
Some times it may be more cost effective for a smaller operation to hire their seeding out, rather than purchasing a drill for the job, so talk to your local professionals before planting to ensure you are using your resources to their greatest potential.
Methods for a New Seeding
Once your field is prepared for seeding, you should review your seeding options. A few of these methods include drilling, no-till drilling, and sprigging. Some hay crops, such as clover, can even be applied with a broadcast seeder. There are many ways to seed hay and there is bound to be a method that fits nicely into your operation, soil type and quality without stretching your budget. Larger seeds should be planted from 1/3 to 3/4 of an inch deep, in sandier soils where the top crest of the soil tends to dry quickly it may be necessary to plant a bit deeper up to and inch and a quarter. Smaller seeds, alfalfa or grass, for example should be planted at shallow depths. When broadcast seeding, always follow with a packer of some type to impress the seed into the soil.
Interseeding Methods
If you are seeding into an existing stand of hay, the existing crop should be
less than 2 inches tall. The seedbed should be firm and have plenty of moisture.
This allows the new seedlings to get sunshine and water without too much competition
from the existing hay. Also, once the new seedlings have started to grow, you should
mow or graze the field any time the existing crop gets between 4 to 6 inches tall.
For optimum growth, the field should be at the same level as the new seedlings.