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Nutritional value of different cuttings of alfalfa

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oranges
Reg. Sep 2009
Posted 2016-03-15 8:43 AM
Subject: Nutritional value of different cuttings of alfalfa


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I can find average nutritional value of alfalfa in general on the internet but I cannot find if there is a difference in protien and fiber content of alfalfa between say the 1st and 4th cuttings. I know this varies by area but can someone tell me a general info on the protien and fiber between cuttings of alfalfa?

Thanks
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Snooky2shoes
Reg. Mar 2016
Posted 2016-03-17 9:51 AM
Subject: RE: Nutritional value of different cuttings of alfalfa


boon


Posts: 1
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Yes, there can be differences in the alfalfa by area but in general it is more important what stage the alfalfa is in when it is cut. Immature hay is more easily digested (it has lower ADF percentage) and more readily consumed (a lower NDF).
The maturity of the plant is not related to a particular cutting but to the stage of the plant when it was cut. The first cutting will produce the highest nutrients when it is cut at the vegetative (non-bud) to early bud stage. Successive cuttings that are done at bud stage will also produce the best hay. Unfortunately, weather plays a big role in hay production and when the producer cannot get to the fields at the optimum time for the alfalfa, as in excessive rainy weather, then the protein will go down and the fiber increases as the plant matures. I hope this helps clarify things for you.
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lindseylou2290
Reg. Aug 2013
Posted 2016-03-17 10:30 AM
Subject: RE: Nutritional value of different cuttings of alfalfa



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Here's an extension pdf from UNL with some general feed values you are asking after. http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2311&cont...


Keep in mind that the breeding and genetics of alfalfa stands improves over time with more weevil and drought resistant types coming all the time - which is good - so these general values will change. If you can find a producer to buy from that tests their hay, you can feed more consistently.
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