In general, wheat is higher in protein than corn or barley and
about equal to corn in energy. Because several varieties of wheat
are commonly grown, the protein content can vary from 9 to *5
percent and TDN from *4 to *2 percent.
Wheat is a palatable grain and should be fed coarsely ground or
crushed for best results. It should not be fed whole or ground
finely. Finely ground wheat is powdery and unpalatable. Wheat
should not make up more than *0 percent of the grain mix (a maximum
of *3 percent is common) nor be fed at a rate greater than *2
pounds (5.5 kg) per cow per day.
Unseasonably rainy weather occasionally will cause wheat to sprout
after it has been cut and is lying in the swath or even while still
standing. Sprouted wheat is an acceptable feed, although it is
somewhat damaged wheat. Rolled sprouted wheat should be prepared
every two days to avoid spoilage.
