Forage Nutritive Value and Mineral Concentrations of Common Pasture Forbs
Applied Research
Amanda Grev
Forage Extension Specialist
University of Maryland Extension
Keedysville
Abstract
Forbs can serve as a high-quality source of forage for pasture-based livestock operations and are sometimes touted as mineral accumulators that can serve as a source of minerals for grazing animals. The objectives of this study were to assess the forage nutritive value and mineral concentrations of common pasture forbs compared to traditional grass species. Forage samples were collected monthly from May-August 2025 on a grass-fed dairy in Washington County, Maryland. Tested species included orchardgrass (OG; grass control), burdock (BD), Canada thistle (CT), chicory (CH), curly dock (CD), dandelion (DA), and plantain (PL). Samples were collected from two different cool-season, mixed-species pastures. All samples were hand-collected within approximately a 50-ft radius to minimize soil and topography differences, and each species was individually sampled and analyzed. Samples were analyzed via wet chemistry at a commercial forage lab. Data was analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS, with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05. Crude protein was greater for BD, CT, and CD (> 26%) compared to OG (21%). Neutral detergent fiber was lower for all forbs (< 37%) compared to OG (56%). Calcium was highest in CT and PL (> 2.4%) and least in OG (0.4%). Phosphorus was greater for DL (0.41%) compared to OG (0.29%). Magnesium was greater for CD (0.64%) compared to all other species (< 0.35%). Potassium was greater for DL (4.8%) compared to OG, CT, and PL (< 3.5%). Copper was greatest for CT (23 ppm) and least for CD (12 ppm). Zinc was greater for CH (45 ppm) compared to OG (26 ppm). Preliminary findings suggest that forbs may contain greater protein, lower fiber, and greater mineral concentrations compared to cool-season grasses like orchardgrass.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
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Authors: Amanda Grev, Jeff Semler
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Grev, A. Forage Extension Specialist, University of Maryland, Maryland, 21756
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Semler, J. Extension Educator, University of Maryland, Maryland, 21713