The reasoning for the higher rates is that it 1)
provides a level of insurance for a good stand when seedling establishment environments are less than
ideal, 2) an increased stem density produces smaller stems resulting in more desirable forage quality, and
3) a denser stand is able to resist weed invasion. Lime based seed coatings were developed to attract
water to the seed and to buffer the pH in acid soils near the seed. Adding lime (CaCO
) to calcareous
soils with high pH is not a benefit. A new and patented seed coating uses gypsum as a base with Mo
added as a micronutrient to promote nodulization of young seedlings. The new seed coating has
improved forage yield and root production in several cases in the arid west. There is little independent
and current information on seeding rates or the new seed coating for Idaho conditions. Moreover,
producers use new and less fall-dormant varieties, cut more frequently, and face more plant disease and
pest problems.