Paul,

I do a lot of work in Georgia and know the Waynesboro area well. I’ve had good success with Eagle Seed Forage soybeans in that area (and further south in Georgia). My best success on sandy sites has occurred when the soil pH is between 6.5 and 7.0 and I’ve used composted poultry litter for fertilizer. Composted litter can hold a huge amount of moisture. It also helps raise the pH so not as much lime is needed. In addition, soils with a pH in the 6.5 to 7.0 range will hold more moisture than more acidic soil. This is a huge help against drought stress.

I plant the forage soybeans when the soil temperature is at 62 degrees. When determining soil temperature, aim for the coolest time of the day (9 AM). Soil temperature thermometers are available at most good farm stores. The temperature of the soil should be monitored at the depth the seed is to be planted. In addition, the http://www.georgiaweather.net/ website lists soil temperatures throughout Georgia — a great tool!! If beans are planted when the soil is cooler, they will be much slower to germinate and grow, and can become easily stressed. If they are planted when the soil is much warmer, the seedlings can become stressed and very susceptible to drought.

Clover rarely is very productive on sites with sandy soils during the summer. Forage soybeans usually provide much more tonnage and are more drought resistant.

Growing Deer together,

Grant