J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1978. 46:787-796.
© 1978 American Society of Animal Science
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Kentucky Bluegrass Straw Composition, Digestibility and Utilization in Wintering Cow Rations1

Richard J. Early3,4, and D. Craig Anderson2

Washington State University,2, Pullman 99164

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the composition, digestibility, and utilization of Kentucky Bluegrass straw. In the first experiment, the nutrient content and digestibility of five varieties (Merion, Nugget, Adelphi, Fylking, and Garfield) of Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) straw were determined.

Merion and Nugget were the highest in crude protein (CP, 7.6% and 7.2%, respectively) and Merion was highest in digestible protein (DP, 2.9%). Garfield was the lowest in CP (3.6%) and DP (.3%). The fiber fractions, except for hemicellulose, were highest in Garfield. Lignin was highest in Garfield (10.5%) although all varieties were within a range of 1.5%. The calcium and phosphorus values for all varieties were less than .04% and .09%, respectively. TDN and digestible dry matter ranged from 28.0% (Garfield) to 41.8% (Adelphi), and from 24.3% (Fylking) to 44.2% (Adelphi), respectively.

In the second experiment, Geary Kentucky Bluegrass straw was compared to Alfalfa hay (Medicago sativa L.) as a winter feed for dry, pregnant beef cows in a 95-day feeding trial. A commercial liquid feed was used to supplement the straw. A chromic oxide digestibility trial was also conducted.

Alfalfa fed cows gained more weight than those fed straw and liquid supplement. Condition of the cows in both treatments improved. Calving, weaning and reproductive performance were similar in both treatments.

Footnotes

1 Scientific Paper No. 4858. College of Agriculture Research Center, Washington State University. Project 0242.

2 Department of Animal Sciences.

3 Present address: Department of Meat and Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison.

4 Data in this paper are from a thesis submitted by the senior author in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Science degree.






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Copyright © 1978 by the American Society of Animal Science.