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IFAS Changes Fertilization Recommendations
for Grazed Bahiagrass Pastures
Fertilization of established, grazed bahiagrass
pastures has been recently revised. The following represents a brief summary of
the main changes in the IFAS fertilization recommendations.
- Optimum Soil pH
Root development and nutrient availability are affected by soil pH. Thus, it
is essential that soil pH is addressed before considering nitrogen and/or phosphorus
fertilizer application. Optimum soil pH for bahiagrass is 5.5 (lime should be applied at least 3 to 6 months
prior to fertilization. Soil samples should be
periodically taken and analyzed to determine soil pH.
- Tissue Testing
Soil test is now recommended for both north and south regions of the State.
In addition to soil testing, tissue analysis is also recommended. Both soil and
tissue samples should be submitted to a reputable laboratory at the same time. For
more information on how to collect tissue samples, please visit
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/SS475.
- Fertilizer Recommendations
Three fertilization options are recommended for established
bahiagrass pastures. Nitrogen fertilization should be chosen based upon economic considerations
of each individual production system. Phosphorus recommendations are based on both soil and
tissue test results and the nitrogen fertilizer option chosen by the producer.
Educational Materials
Publications
R. Mylavarapu, D. Wright, G. Kidder, C.G. Chambliss. 2007.
UF/IFAS Standardized Fertilization Recommendations
for Agronomic Crops. Cooperative Extension Service, IFAS, University of Florida. SL129.
Available at:http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/SS163
M.L. Silveira. 2008. Changes in Bahiagrass Fertilization Recommendations.
Ona Report. The Florida Cattlemen.
Available at: http://rcrec-one.ifas.ufl.edu/or2-08.html
M.L. Silveira, J.M. Vendramini, L.E. Sollenberger, C.L. Mackowiak, Y.C. Newman. 2007.
Bahiagrass tissue analysis as a nutrient management tool for bahiagrass pastures.
Cooperative Extension Service, IFAS, University of Florida. SS475.
Available at:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/SS475
Y.C. Newman, C. Mackowiak, R. Mylavaparu, and M. Silveira. 2007.
Fertilizing and liming of forage crops.
Cooperative Extension Service, IFAS, University of Florida. AG179.
Available at:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/AG179
C.L. Mackowiak, A.R. Blount, E.A. Hanlon, M.L. Silveira, M.B. Adjei, and R.O. Myer. 2008.
Getting the most out of bahiagrass fertilization. Cooperative Extension Service,
IFAS, University of Florida. SSXX. (In press)
Producer Information Sheet - UF/IFAS Extension Soil Testing Lab
Flow Chart for Sample Submission
Video
For more information on bahiagrass fertilization,
please contact Maria Silveira (Soil Scientist):
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