Silvopasture: Grazing Systems Can Add Value to Trees

Silvopasture establishment requires a number of different management steps depending on previous land use, including thinning, prescribed burning, and pruning. Planting trees in an existing improved pasture is the easiest way to start the system. Another possible scenario is to thin existing timber stands and plant or seed forage species among the remaining trees. Adequate soil fertility, proper pH, and well-developed structure provide the foundation for a productive silvopastoral system. Other building blocks include proper drainage and erosion control. Regular soil testing will help indicate when additional fertilizer or lime is needed to support forage production.

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