hay feed alfalfa first or grass

[RAWCJW]

Hello everybody. Im new to the board and just getting started in cattle. I have learned lots here and appreciate it. I bought round bales of hay locally, half of them are straight alfalfa, half are grass.(had to get what I could) Both are later cutting. I was going to feed the grass bales first and save the alfalfa for late winter. What would you suggest? It looks like I am going to have a few extras which would keep better they are stored outside? Next year should I go with just one or the other? There isn't much price difference but it looks like the alfalfa gets alot moldier. I have not fed any alfalfa yet. By the way I have thick skin so I can take a few jabs. :lol: These boards are great thanks alot. MERRY CHRISTMAS

 

[msscamp]

If your cattle are not used to alfalfa I would suggest alternating the two to prevent possible bloat and the runs.

 

[Daybreak]

Howdy,
Yes, feeding 1 roll alfalfa, and 1 roll of mixed grass the next day would be better for your situation.

Outside storing after being moved is not great. The alfalfa will really dissapear in the rain. Move them, tarp them.

If you desire, I would suggest maybe getting forage samples tested to see what your dealing with.

 

[RAWCJW]

If your cattle are not used to alfalfa I would suggest alternating the two to prevent possible bloat and the runs.

Msscamp I probably should have mentioned I am only using 1 bale every 3 weeks. If I switch back and forth do you think it will throw them off? If they get used to the alfalfa will they eat the grass very well? Thanks Rawcjw

 

[ollie']

Feed your poorest quality hay first.

 

[RAWCJW]

Howdy,
Yes, feeding 1 roll alfalfa, and 1 roll of mixed grass the next day would be better for your situation.

Outside storing after being moved is not great. The alfalfa will really dissapear in the rain. Move them, tarp them.

If you desire, I would suggest maybe getting forage samples tested to see what your dealing with.

I wanted to tarp them but they already were rained on,Iwas afraid I might trap more moisture in? Next year I plan on buying right out of the field so I can get them covered,I have n't checked in to getting them tested but I will. Thanks

 

[Daybreak]

Howdy,

OK, I see.
Very small group of cows.
Yes like ollie said. Feed the poorest quality first, and then move onto the better stuff.

If not tarped, at least under some kind of cover. Alfalfa rolls deteriate into nothing after rains...

 

[Susie David]

We feed a good quality alfalfa so when we bring in replacements we start them on grass and slowly introduce the alfalfa...haven't bloated one yet.
Hey...welcome DMc