Effect of moisture, bale type, and a preservative on alfalfa hay quality and feeding value

Authors

A. Laytimi
J. Arledge
C. Grimes
K. Bolsen

Keywords

Cattlemen's Day, 1986; Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution; no. 86-320-S; Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service); 494; Beef; Moisture; Bale type; Preservative; Hay quality; Value

Abstract

In the first of two alfalfa hay experiments, lambs fed small bale hays averaged 16% better gains and feed conversions than those fed large bale hays; Fresh Cut®-treated hay gave 9% better performance than untreated hays; and medium-moisture hays produced 12% faster and more efficient gains than low-moisture hays. In the second experiment, hay baled above 30% moisture had excessive heating, more discoloration and mold growth, higher storage losses, and lower dry matter and protein digestibilities compared with 15% moisture hay.

Recommended Citation

Laytimi, A.; Arledge, J.; Grimes, C.; and Bolsen, K. (1986) "Effect of moisture, bale type, and a preservative on alfalfa hay quality and feeding value," Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports: Vol. 0: Iss. 1. https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.2440