– Emma Matcham, Kyle Verhoff, and Dave Barker, Ohio State University Extension
Alfalfa showing spring growth. Image credit: Mark Sulc
Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause frost heaving in alfalfa and other winter crop fields. The colder than usual winter in Ohio this year could increase frost heave risk. This article covers the basics of identifying frost heave and planning for spring management if needed.
What is frost heave? Frost heave, also called heaving, is a lifting of the upper layers of soil and plants due to the expansion of water as it freezes, similar to how ice formation during freeze-thaw cycles expands potholes on roads. Frost heave can happen on soils regardless of whether they have crop or bare dirt, but it is generally . . .
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