Can Cattle Be Used to Control Sericea Lespedeza?

Abstract

On the Ground • Supplemental polyethylene glycol (PEG), a polymer that neutralizes the negative effects of tannins, can increase intake and preference of cattle for fresh-cut sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata), an invasive, tannin-containing legume for the tallgrass prairie region of the Great Plains. • In grazing trials, steers supplemented with PEG plus a high-protein supplement tended to eat more sericea than did steers only supplemented with the high-protein supplement. • Supplementing cattle with PEG, protein, or a combination of the two has the potential to enhance the amount of sericea consumed by cattle, contributing to the control of this weed.