Is lespedeza hay good for horses?

Lespedeza is therefore appropriate for most horses with elevated nutrient needs—young horses, certain broodmares, and those that require calories to fuel performance or improved body condition, according to Catherine Whitehouse, M.S., nutrition advisor at Kentucky Equine Research(KER).

What is the healthiest hay for horses?

Alfalfa
Alfalfa, white clover, red clover and birdsfoot trefoil are common types of legumes, with alfalfa being the most popular choice. Benefits: Legumes are higher in protein and calcium than grass hay, and may also provide more energy and a higher level of total digestible nutrients, such as vitamin A.

Is lespedeza a legume?

Sericea lespedeza is a deep rooted drought tolerant perennial legume that was introduced in the upper south region of the United States from Japan in the late 1890’s. Seeds are spread by wildlife, cattle, hay, and also as a contaminant in other legume seed.

Does lespedeza make good hay?

Lespedezas can make excellent hay. Cut when plants reach 30 percent bloom or 12–15 inches in height. Regrowth occurs from the buds in the crown of the plant, so leave a 3- to 5-inch residual height. Pure stands of lespedeza can produce 1–4 tons of dry matter per acre.

What is lespedeza grass?

Lespedeza striata) is a freely branched, summer annual legume that is a problematic weed in lawns and other turf areas. Common lespedeza, also known as Japanese clover or annual lespedeza, has three smooth, oblong leaflets with parallel veins that are nearly perpendicular to the midvein (Figure 1).

What hay is best for older horses?

The horse needs to be able to chew and break down the hay, so select good-quality, soft hay that isn’t overly mature; it shouldn’t have thick, fibrous stalks. Coleman has found that mixed grass-legume hay, such as orchard-alfalfa or timothy-alfalfa, is often a good choice.

Which cut of hay is best for horses?

The most common choice of hay is second cutting, but first cutting is also good for horses, plus it is usually cheaper than the other two. Choose hay that is soft, green, and leafy, with thin stems, so it is easier for horses to eat.

What cut of hay is best for horses?

Is timothy or alfalfa better for horses?

Alfalfa hay is typically higher in protein and essential nutrients than timothy hay, making Alfalfa a better option for more active animals that need a high protein diet. Alfalfa also has more calories per pound than timothy, so it’s generally the preferred choice of sport horse owners.