hogs and alfalfa

morgan in ar · Mar 17, 2015

I've got a couple of bred sows, and I plan on raising some feeder pigs to sell. I would like to be able to grow most of their feed, as opposed to buying it. I don't have any grain equipment, only hay. Will hogs eat much alfalfa hay?

JMS/.MN · Mar 17, 2015

I wouldn"t use much for fattening hogs, but it"s an excellent feed for sows. Keeps them regular, occupied...good protein source. Bulk in their ration is necessary.

notjustair · Mar 17, 2015

I always throw a bale in the grinder when I grind hog feed. They have a pretty soft mouth in comparison to cows, etc. so they don't eat alfalfa as excitedly as some other animals. They like it, but it can't be very stemmy or they will leave it alone. They REALLY enjoy brome hay if it is leafy. I usually give a flake per 4 head in each pen every day through the winter. It will slow down their weight gain if you are only fattening them so give less to the feeders.

They really like range cubes as well. Those are good for feeders as they are just over 20% protein. It also gives them something to root and scavenge for. I dump a scoop a day into the feeder pen and let them clean them up.

Deere Scotty · Mar 18, 2015

Was taught in HS Ag Class for hogs Alfalfa should be cut at about 3 - 3 1/2 weeks to be able to utilize, & digest it better. Have no personal experience though!

hogs and alfalfa

morgan in ar

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JMS/.MN

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notjustair

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Deere Scotty

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