Finish Strong with Summer Brood: Secure late season and prep for spring.
A more resilient third crop. A jump on spring. And organic matter for long-term soil health.

Midwestern farmers know the drill: nutrients out means nutrients back in. But how you replenish your soil matters. If you're looking for a smart, high-impact way to boost third crop growth, rebuild hayfield fertility, and improve long-term soil health, spreading poultry litter—specifically brood litter—in mid-summer might be your best bet. In this blog, we’ll break down why Midwest growers are turning to summer-applied brood litter to finish strong and set up for success next season.
How a Strong Late Season Starts in Summer
By mid-summer, second cutting is behind you—or nearly there. Your hayfields have worked hard.
To finish the season strong, you need to recharge and refeed your fields. For growing in the midwest, we're partial to poultry litters for various reasons. Brood, for this specific application.
Brood litter is a high-quality poultry litter packed with nutrients, organic matter, and biological benefits. And mid-summer is an ideal time to apply it.
Here’s why:
✅ Replenish hayfield nutrients—Second cutting pulls nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from the soil. Brood litter puts those nutrients back in, naturally—plus adds slow-release nitrogen and key micronutrients.
✅ Fuel a resilient third grow—Recent rains across the Midwest have created ideal moisture conditions. A healthy, nutrient-fed plant can take advantage of this window to deliver stronger yields and resist late-season drought or stress.
✅ Build organic matter—Poultry litter improves water-holding capacity, nutrient cycling, and soil structure. The organic matter in brood litter lays the foundation for healthier, more productive soil over time.
Benefits Beyond This Season
Unlike synthetic fertilizers that offer short-term gains, brood litter builds value season after season.
Every application improves your soil’s structure, microbial activity, and resilience. It's a long-term investment Midwest farmers can count on.
Whether you’re rebuilding hay ground, prepping a third grow, or improving overall fertility, brood litter is one of the most cost-effective and regenerative options available.
Quick FAQ: Spreading Summer Brood
Q: How soon after second cutting should I apply brood litter?
A: As soon as the field is cleared and weather allows—earlier application allows nutrients to begin cycling before the third grow kicks in.
Q: Can I use brood litter on ground I plan to graze later?
A: Yes, with proper timing and application. Consult your agronomist or local guidelines on incorporation and grazing intervals.
Q: How does brood litter compare to synthetic fertilizer on cost?
A: Brood litter often delivers more nutrients per dollar when factoring in organic matter and microbials—not just N-P-K.
Why Mid-Summer Timing Works
Conditions across the Midwest are ideal right now: moisture levels are up, temps are steady, and crops are responsive.
Spreading poultry litter now ensures nutrient availability during critical growth windows. Plus, scheduling summer applications gives your ground time to process nutrients before fall or spring planting.
Don’t Wait.
Getting on the schedule now means you’ll beat the rush—and see the benefit in your third cut and next spring.
If you want to know more about Brood litter benefits, availability, whatever... Get in touch.