A review of sod-seeding for pasture improvement in Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract

The Canadian province of Saskatchewan is located on the Great Plains of North America and is an important beef (Bos taurus) production region. Pasture rejuvenation through sod-seeding has been little adopted by beef producers in the province despite forty years of research. We reviewed the research results to determine the successes and gaps in knowledge to guide current and future research and extension activities and crop insurance programs. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) sod-seeding results have been more consistent than other legumes and is currently the standard legume, though both Cicer milkvetch (Astragalus cicer L.) and alfalfa established well in sub-humid (wetter) locations. As non-bloat legume species and other such varieties are released by plant breeding programs, more research on alternative legumes, such as sainfoin, (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.), should be conducted. P fertilizer with sod-seeding species improved seedling establishment. Vegetation control of existing pasture species was found to improve sod-seeding success in semi-arid locations, while it was not required in sub-humid locations. The cost of broad-spectrum herbicide to reduce existing pasture species competition has decreased dramatically since much of the research was done. Therefore, the economics of herbicide suppression for successful sod-seeding should be re-examined at current pricing and across a range of soil zones represented in the province. Modern zero-till seed drills can be used for sod-seeding in semi-arid soil zones, while broadcast seeding can be used in subhumid soil zones.