Wholecrop can produce high protein and high fibre forage to complement other high energy foods in the ration.
Oliver Seeds have been testing species used for wholecrop since 2001 and carried out extensive trials on various aspects of wholecrop mixtures. The results make for some fascinating reading and whilst a summary is given here, full details can be obtained from your Oliver Seeds field staff.
Energy density and protein are crucial factors in deciding what you need. Barley was the top performing cerals at 6.8 tonnes of dry matter per hectare in our trials.
Peas and Vetches play a huge part in supplying protein for home grown rations. Not only do the pulses supply protein, but also have a very high "D" value ensuring maximum feed value.
Of the peas, the tannin rich Maples established quickly and were very vigorous, yielding approximately 1 tonne more dry matter per hectare than the blue and white combining Peas in the trial.
Table 2: Digestible Yield v Protein Content of Wholecrop Species
