On February 10, the Rural Development Administration (RDA) warned about potential growth issues in winter forage crops due to delayed sowing last fall and recent cold snaps. They stressed the importance of post-winter cultivation management.
A nationwide survey by the RDA revealed that frequent October rains delayed straw collection and sowing, resulting in stunted growth in some areas.
Winter forage crops that haven’t grown sufficiently before winter are more susceptible to cold and heavy snow damage. Accumulated harm could lead to delayed growth or crop failure.
To promote spring growth recovery after winter, farmers should compact the soil in cultivation areas. This helps secure soil and roots, preventing root uplift and encouraging stable root establishment.
Top dressing should be applied in early spring when growth resumes after winter. For Italian ryegrass, 100 kg of nitrogen per hectare (10-11 bags of urea) is recommended. For rye and barley, 60-70 kg of nitrogen per hectare (6-7 bags of urea) is advised.
To prevent water accumulation from winter snow and spring rain, farmers should maintain irrigation channels and ensure proper drainage.
For areas that missed fall sowing or experienced poor growth, spring sowing can boost productivity. Farmers can choose complete or partial re-sowing based on field conditions. While prioritizing existing crop types, fast-maturing varieties are recommended due to the short three-month spring growing period.
Lee Sang-hoon, head of the Forage Production System at the National Institute of Animal Science, stated, “The risk of decreased winter forage crop productivity has increased due to last fall’s sowing delays and this year’s cold wave. We’ll enhance on-site technical support for post-winter management, collaborating with local agricultural technology centers to ensure stable forage production.”
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