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Soybeans as a forage option

With the possibility that some soybeans won’t reach maturity before the first killing freeze, they could be a forage option for livestock producers needing feed.

Keith Johnson, Purdue Extension forage specialist says to get the most out of the crop it should be harvested before green leaves begin to yellow and he recommends ensiling rather than harvesting it as hay.

“If chopped and ensiled, livestock will be less likely to sort out the lower quality stem, as compared to when soybeans are made and fed as long-stemmed hay,” Johnson said.

The Purdue specialist also says it’s important to be aware of any pesticides that were applied to the soybean crop.

“It’s very critical before the soybean is harvested as a forage source that we check the label, of the difference products,” said Johnson. “Herbicides, miticides, fungicides, certainly there were some spider mite issues that did occur this year and we need to real cautious about harvesting the crop, so we need to check these labels.”

For those with crop insurance, Keith Johnson says it’s important to check with your insurance agent to get clearance before cutting the crop for forage.