Nitrates found in lambsquarter

Nitrates are an issue to be aware of with our annual forage like hay barley and other small grain that we make into hay. Moisture has not been universal across the landscape and some crops and weeds may be stressed, accumulating nitrate.

One early test of lambsquarter (see photo below) showed presence of nitrate. In large quantities, this weed could be a problem in hay. Taking a sample of the plant and bring it to the Extension Office ahead of haying can screen for the presence of nitrate. Also cutting forage in the afternoon allows for nitrates, which pool in the base of the plant at n...