By Scout Nelson
Corn is the main grain in cattle diets, but milo, also known as grain sorghum, can be a valuable alternative when market conditions are right.
Milo is cost effective when its price is 90 percent or less than corn on a per bushel basis. For example, if corn sells at $4 a bushel, milo is a good buy at $3.60 or less.
Milo contains a similar or slightly higher protein level than corn but has less energy. Because of its hard seed coat, processing is essential to improve digestion. Rolling or grinding the grain helps rumen microbes break down starch and improve performance.
Steam flaking gives the highest digestibility, but rolling or grinding works well when steam flaking is not available. Fine grinding can boost average daily gain by about 3 percent and feed efficiency by 7 percent, but it also increases the risk of bloat or acidosis. Careful feed bunk management and the use of ionophores help reduce these risks.
Harvesting milo at 22 to 30 percent moisture allows for earlier harvest and reduces field loss. High moisture milo provides better starch digestibility and supports improved cattle performance.
Farmers can harvest it with a combine or forage harvester to create “headlage,” which includes both grain and stalk material. Processing is still needed before storing or feeding.
Mixing dry rolled milo with high moisture corn works especially well. The combination delivers higher gains and better feed efficiency than feeding either grain alone. Researchers attribute this to improved rumen digestion and a lower risk of acidosis.
Overall, milo is a practical choice when priced right and processed properly. Blending it with high moisture corn or using it as a high moisture feed can further improve cattle performance. Producers new to feeding milo should consult a nutritionist or extension specialist for best results.
Photo Credit: istock-123ducu
Categories: South Dakota, Corn, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle