N boosts fescue but raises toxin

It is difficult to make blanket recommendations on fall nitrogen fertilizer rates to pastures because of the variability in how forages are managed in the Fescue Belt, says University of Missouri Extension State Nutrient Management Specialist John Lory.But fescue pastures need a source of nitrogen to thrive, he says.“Judicious use” of nitrogen fertilizer — prioritizing low fertilizer rates to stands deficient in nitrogen — will maximize yields while limiting toxicity in f