Amounts and Distribution of Minerals in Washington Forages

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Abstract
Samples of alfalfa hay and grass silage from Washington state were analyzed for crude protein, neutral and acid detergent fiber, ash and mineral content. Subsequently, neutral and acid detergent fiber fractions were analyzed for mineral elements. Ca, Mg and Cu in alfalfa were negatively correlated with percent neutral and acid detergent fiber and positively correlated with percent crude protein. For grass silage P, K, Mg and Zn were positively correlated with percent crude protein. Percent of total mineral in alfalfa associated with neutral detergent fiber was Ca 24%, P 31%, K 1%, Mg 5%, Cu 29%, Zn 31% and Fe 77%. Percent of total minerals located in the acid detergent fiber was Ca 3%, P not detectable, K 3%, Mg 2%, Cu 43%, Zn 23% and Fe 19%. Percents were similar for grass silate. Additionally, Cu and Ca in the neutral detergent fraction and Ca in the acid detergent fraction decreased with higher neutral and acid detergent fiber. A significant portion of Ca, P, Fe, Zn and Cu are associated with the fibrous portion of alfalfa hay and grass silage.