Test hail-damaged crops for nitrate levels, and work with a nutritionist to dilute forages with elevated nitrates.
The growth points of alfalfa and red clover are at the tips of the stems, so management recommendations depend on the amount of damage:
Less than 50% growth points removed: wait to cut until planned harvest maturity. Expect reduced yields.
More than 50% growth points removed, and the crop will be baleage or silage: flail chop (e.g. bush hog) or mow it at 10-15 cm (4-6 in.) stubble height and leave it in the field to prevent mould contamination in the forage. Harvest the regrowth when it reaches target maturity.
More than 50% growth points removed, and the crop will be dry hay: If yield justifies harvest, the crop can be harvested right away. If yield does not justify harvest, wait until the regrowth reaches the target maturity.
New seedlings do not have a crown to regrow from. If the growth point at the tip of the stem is removed, the plant will die. Once seedlings reach 7.5-10 cm tall (3-4 in.) they may have a crown; it can be felt as a ridge between the top growth and the roots. Count the number of plants that have a developed crown. If this is over 67 plants per 0.25 m2 (25 plants per ft2), keep the stand. If the number of plants is below this threshold, the stand should be reseeded.
Pastures
Test hail-damaged crops for nitrate levels, and work with a nutritionist to dilute forages with elevated nitrates.
If possible, rest the damaged pasture until the regrowth is ready to be grazed.
