Want a reminder of just how quickly grasslands can be taken over by woody species? Check out this graphic from The Prairie Project:
The Prairie Project collaboration (producers, University Extension, researchers, and others) is designed to share research on woody encroachment issues and other grazing topics – in hopes of keeping this map from getting any darker. Management to combat woody encroachment isn’t easy. Unfortunately, doing nothing will only result in continued acreage lost.
In the last month, we’ve published a number of news columns focused on some of the reasons these plants do so well in our environment (The Competitive Nature of Sericea Lespedeza), how to give cool season grasses a competitive advantage (Soil Sampling Tips – Hay/Pasture) as well as some ways to extend our brush management control efforts – often well into winter:
- Brush Control Using Basal Bark Treatments
- Brush Control Using Cut Stump Treatments
- ‘Other’ Brush Control Options
In addition to these articles, consider grabbing a copy of the 2024 KSU Chemical Weed Control Guide, available from any Meadowlark Extension District Office or online at: In it, you’ll find helpful charts like this:
If you’re interested in soil testing, brush control, or just want a copy of our Chemical Weed Control Guide, drop me a line at dhallaue@ksu.edu .
