Growers Should Think Carefully Before Using Frost-Damaged Corn for Hay or Grazing

By James Rogers and Karl Hoppe

Early frost has damaged many acres of corn in North Dakota. The stage of maturity of the corn and the intensity and duration of the freeze will directly impact corn grain yield. In some cases, the severity of the damage may have growers looking for options to salvage what is left of the crop.

James Rogers, North Dakota State University Extension forage crops production specialist, says that growers might consider haying their corn, but this may not be the best option for some.

Corn hay, on average, will contain approximately 8%-10% crude protein and 65% total digestible nutrients.

“The main issue with turning corn into hay,” says Rogers, “is the moisture content of the corn and getting it to dry down to a moisture point where it can be put into a bale.”

Plant maturity has a major impact on corn moisture content. The more immature the corn is at the time of frost, the higher the moisture content of the plant.