My second cutting of hay contains chicory. An estimation of maybe 8 to 10 percent. Maybe as much as 15 percent. Estimate based on eyeball observation.
The rolls test 12 percent protein. I was curious if chicory could have any adverse effects on cattle. What I discovered was interesting. Not only does chicory have adequate protein content, it has a high mineral content.
What was most interesting is that it may be effective in reducing nematode loads in cattle. Upon a Google search of the subject, I found two research publications that found chicory reduced nematode numbers in a steer study. The steers were dewormed and a known quantity of nematode larva was introduced into each group. The group fed a silage containing chicory, had a much reduced worm load at the end of the study period.
Does anyone know of any adverse effects of chicory?
The rolls test 12 percent protein. I was curious if chicory could have any adverse effects on cattle. What I discovered was interesting. Not only does chicory have adequate protein content, it has a high mineral content.
What was most interesting is that it may be effective in reducing nematode loads in cattle. Upon a Google search of the subject, I found two research publications that found chicory reduced nematode numbers in a steer study. The steers were dewormed and a known quantity of nematode larva was introduced into each group. The group fed a silage containing chicory, had a much reduced worm load at the end of the study period.
Does anyone know of any adverse effects of chicory?