Boosting Forage Inventories with Alternative Crops

Spring is here, and for many producers, the question isn’t just what to plant; it’s how to protect forage inventories in a year where weather and economics remain unpredictable. After several seasons of tight margins and regional droughts, flexibility is the name of the game. It’s important for producers to explore different crops to produce more of their own cost-efficient feeds. Understanding differences in strategies for growing, harvesting and ensiling alternative forage crops can help boost overall silage tonnage and inventories, ensuring enough high-quality home-produced feed.

Warm-Season Grasses: A Reliable Backup

Forage sorghum and sorghum-sudan grass hybrids are gaining traction as corn alternatives. These warm-season grasses thrive in drought conditions and can produce impressive yields. While sorghum silage offers about 85% of corn’s feeding value, its protein levels are similar, making it a practical choice when water is limited. Recently, a new berry processor technology was introduced in the market, and research showed the in-situ starch digestibility increased 20 to 40 units in ensiled sorghum.

Brown midrib (BMR) hybrids are recommended for improved digestibility. Harvest timing is key: aim for soft to mid-dough stage or 32–37% dry matter. Because these crops can accumulate nitrates under stress, raising cutting height and waiting until after frost can reduce risks. Using a proven forage inoculant is essential to ensure fast, controlled fermentation and minimize losses, especially if silage will be fed during warm months.

Small Grains and Mixtures: Quick Turnaround

Small grains like rye, triticale and barley remain popular for spring forage. They fit well into double-cropping systems and can be harvested early for high-quality feed. Boot stage harvest delivers the best nutrient profile for lactating cows, while later stages suit dry cows and heifers.

Mixing small grains with annual legumes such as peas boosts palatability and nutrient density. For example, oats combined with peas can raise relative forage quality (RFQ) significantly. Inoculation is critical here too, as soil contamination and hollow stems can challenge the fermentation and feedout stability.

Soybeans and Corn Stover: Extra Options

Soybeans can be a practical choice for spring silage. Harvest at R3–R4 stages for high forage quality and chop to 3/8-inch for proper packing. Later harvests are possible but harder to ensile due to high oil and protein. Always use a homolactic inoculant and consider mixing soybeans with another forage crop that is more “ensilable” and palatable, such as corn or grasses, that can facilitate fermentation and increase feed intake.

Corn stover can help stretch forage supplies for heifers and dry cows, freeing up higher-quality silage for lactating cows. Grind, rehydrate to about 50% dry matter, and treat with calcium hydroxide to boost digestibility before ensiling.

Key Takeaways for 2026