Sangwa Sifa Florence
Sangwa Sifa Florence

@SangwaSifa

10 Tweets 15 reads May 16, 2023
HAY MAKING
Are you a farmer planning to make hay for your herd of cows? Wondering what kind of grass to use?
Look no further! In this thread, I am going to share with you the best grass options based on the different stages of your cows.
Let's dive in!
Timothy Grass (Phleum pratense): Timothy is highly palatable and has high fiber content, making it an excellent choice for mature cows that don't require excessive protein. It provides essential roughage for their diet.
Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata): Orchard grass offers a good balance of nutrition and palatability. It has higher protein content compared to Timothy and is suitable for lactating cows or growing calves that need more protein in their diet.
Brachiaria Grass: Brachiaria is a tropical grass known for its high productivity and nutritional value. It's rich in protein, minerals, and energy, making it a great choice for various stages of your herd, including calves, heifers, pregnant cows, and lactating cows.
Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon): Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that's popular in southern regions. It's high in protein and low in fiber, making it a good choice for growing cattle or lactating cows.
Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a legume that can be added to the hay mix to increase protein content. It's particularly beneficial for pregnant or lactating cows, as it provides essential minerals such as calcium and supports overall cow health.
Consider the specific needs of your herd when choosing the grass mix.
For instance:
- Calves and growing heifers benefit from grasses with higher protein content to support their growth and development.
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- Pregnant cows require a well-balanced diet to support the growth of their calves.
- Lactating cows need ample nutrition to produce quality milk for their calves.
Remember, proper timing of cutting and baling is crucial. Cut the grass when it's in its vegetative stage for optimal quality.
By using a combination of timothy, orchardgrass, brachiaria, alfalfa, and other suitable grasses, you can prepare high-quality hay tailored to the specific needs of your herd. This ensures they receive the essential nutrients for their growth, health, and productivity. #FarmLife

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