Question
I raise cattle on a small farm in North Texas.   I have some wash out areas along my creek.  I was thinking about sprigging some zoysia grass in these areas to hold the soil however, I also have cattle that will eventually have access to this area.   Is the zoysia grass poisonous to my cattle?   Will cattle eat it and if so is it nutritional for them?  Thank you, Linda

Answer
Ms. Kirkpatrick:

What a fine name!

Zoysia is a high maintenannce turf for golf courses.  I would recommend common Bermuda, which can be seeded.  It is cut for hay here in North Carolina, grows aggressively, self repairs, seeds itself, takes drought well and is fair forage.

If you have the equipment or access to another farmer, consider harrowing around the washes to reduce the slope.  Make swales instead of having steep and uneven washes.  Then, sow Bermuda with some fertilizer.  Give grass approx. two months before turning cattle out on it.

There are also some notable forage mixes which would do well in your area.  Check with your local ag agent for proper names of varieties.  There ought to be some mixes designed for your weather and soils.  Bermuda is a good choice, though.  It will be inexpensive to buy seed and will go far per pound and per dollar.

Best wishes.