Location: Environmentally Integrated Dairy Management Research
Title: Harvest management to optimize sorghum-sudangrass qualityAuthor
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Akins, Matthew |
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Submitted to: Hay and Forage Grower
Publication Type: Popular Publication Publication Acceptance Date: 2/21/2025 Publication Date: 3/3/2025 Citation: Akins, M.S. 2025. Harvest management to optimize sorghum-sudangrass quality. Hay and Forage Grower. March 2025. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: The use of sorghum-sudangrass forage in an annual rotation system on dairy and beef farms is increasing, however forage quality can be less than desired due to harvest management. Producers can use harvest management (single harvest or multiple harvests) to produce optimal quality forage to fit the desired animal groups to be fed. A single harvest of sorghum-sudangrass in the late summer or early fall will produce forage with low to moderate quality forage ideal for feeding pregnant dairy heifers and dry cows. Using multiple harvests every 30-45 days when the forage reaches 3-4 feet in height will produce forage of good to high quality to feed pre-breeding dairy heifers or lactating cows. It is recommended to use a variety with a brown midrib trait if intending to feed lactating cows to increase fiber digestibility and energy content. Overall, understanding harvest management is a key factor to ensure optimal forage quality that meets the needs of specific animal groups. |
