A Comparison of Pearl Millet and Sorghum–Sudangrass Pastures during the Frost-Prone Autumn for Growing Beef Cattle in Semiarid Region

Sorghum–sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor × S. sudanense (Piper) Stapf.) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) provide adequate nutritive value for growing beef cattle; however, unlike millet, sorghum–sudangrass produces hydrocyanic acid (which is toxic to livestock) when frosted. Forage yield, value, weight gain of cattle grazing were compared during the frost-prone autumns 2013 2014, at New Mexico State University’s Rex E. Kirksey Agricultural Science Center in Tucumcari, NM USA, randomized complete block designs each year with two replicates. No differences existed between forage although there was a year–forage interaction fiber-based components because maturity across years forages freeze-killed. Pearl allowed extending available an additional 14 24 d respectively, autumn periods. During that period, sorghum produce potentially levels acid, animals accumulated average 94.9 kg live-weight ha?1 (p < 0.001). These factors afford producers opportunity increase returns on similar investments establishing managing warm-season annual crops year, allow more time stockpile cool-season perennial winter early spring grazing, or reduce hay feeding.