Silvopasture Understory Mix

Control competing weeds before seeding, particularly in the open or semi-open zones where weed pressure is highest. Under established tree canopy, the shade itself suppresses many annual weeds.

A light raking to create soil contact is often sufficient under mature canopy. Use a firm-seeded drill or cultipack broadcast method for best results.

Broadcast at 5 lb per acre and cultipack or drag to press seed into soil contact. Alternatively, drill at 1/4 inch depth.

Inoculate White Clover with a clover-specific Rhizobium inoculant before seeding. For inter-seeding under existing canopy, broadcast after tight grazing in late summer when soil moisture is available and tree leaf drop begins to open light levels.

Orchardgrass and White Clover emerge quickly and begin building canopy within 2–3 weeks under adequate moisture. Creeping Red Fescue is slower but spreads laterally over time.

Do not graze until stands reach 4–6 inches under canopy — shaded plants store less reserve energy and need more time to anchor before the first grazing event.

This is a permanent perennial sward — not intended for termination. Manage with rotational grazing, allowing 45–60 day rest periods.

Avoid continuous grazing, which eliminates the broadleaf fraction rapidly under the added stress of shade competition. Overseed thin areas every 3–4 years, particularly under canopy gaps where light levels increase seasonally.