Article
Article
Legume forages
Article By:
Tabor, Paul Soil Conservation Service, Athens, Georgia.
Last reviewed:August 2020
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.376200
Plants of the legume family used for livestock feed, grazing, hay, or silage. Legume forages are usually richer in protein, calcium, and phosphorus than other kinds of forages, such as grass. The production, preservation, and use of forage legumes (see illustration) require special skills with regard to most soils. One important requirement is a supply of the needed symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria. If these are not already in the soil, commercial cultures for various strains of these bacteria can be purchased and applied to the legume seed just before planting. Additional lime and commercial fertilizers may be necessary on soils as well. Protection from weeds, injurious insects, diseases, and other harmful influences is often required. See also: Agricultural soil and crop practices; Animal feeds; Fertilizer; Forage crops; Legume; Nitrogen fixation
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