Q: Would tillage radishes make a good fall forage, planted after soybean harvest? Is it possible to forage cows through winter into early spring on turnips? (December 29, 2010)
A: Radishes, such as the tillage or oil seed, and turnips can make excellent fall forage. In plot trials, I have observed early November crude protein content of the top forage at 18% or more and total digestible nutrient content above 70%. Quality of the bulbs is just slightly lower. Yields have been 2 to 3 tons per acre.
Q: What is the correct temperature to hang beef in a cooler for 7 to 14 days of storage? (September 15, 2009)
A: There is no regulatory requirement for beef carcass storage temperatures. Most processors will age carcass beef at temperatures below 40 degrees F with a common range from 34 to 38 degrees F.
Q: At what age is it safe to breed a heifer? (October 6, 2009)
A: Breeding should occur when the heifer reaches puberty. Puberty is a function of breed, age, and weight. Most heifers will reach puberty and be bred by 12 to 14 months of age and will be between 55% and 65% of their mature weight when they first begin to exhibit estrous cycles. Higher growth heifers and heifers that have a breed composition that is a high percentage bos indicus (Brahman) are later maturing and are older at puberty.