Forage this fall is tight and crop residues supply an economical alternative for cows to graze or for baling and feeding later. We’ve checked out corn and sorghum residues beforehand, so let’s take a while to evaluate the standard of soybean residues.
Soybeans themselves are very excessive in protein and fats. At about 40% crude protein and 20% fats, the beans alone could be a good feed supply when fed carefully. The excessive fats content material may cause points with rumen operate, particularly in younger calves, so earlier than letting animals out to graze a bean subject, clear up any piles of spilled grain.
Soybean residues, alternatively, have a a lot totally different feed composition. Empty bean pods and stems comprise solely 4 to six% CP and the TDN is barely 35 to 45%. Soybean leaves are barely greater in protein at 12%, however the leaves break down rapidly and are normally now not obtainable for consumption as soon as harvest has been accomplished.
With these qualities, soybean residues are unable assist the dietary necessities of a dry cow even when there’s some grain left within the subject. There may be nonetheless alternative to graze soybean residue along side a supplemented high-quality feed. Not solely does this gives relaxation to pastures, however might help stretch feed sources whereas nonetheless making certain the cow is correctly fed.
Baled soybean residue can be utilized as a roughage supply in rations if wanted. Identical to grazing, baled soybean residue doesn’t meet cow necessities, with even decrease high quality than baled corn stalk residues.
Soybean residue will not be the standard we regularly assume. Whereas it may be used to relaxation pasture and stretch feed sources, residue alone won’t meet even a dry cow’s nutrient necessities. Supplementation shall be want for those who determine to make the most of your soybean residue.
Supply: College of Nebraska-Lincoln
