My rabbits will eat a variety of forage but the thing they prefer most are the leaves of my mulberry tree. -Me

Trees can be a viable source of livestock feed. In some cases, the leaves, bark, or branches of certain trees can be used to feed livestock.

Leaves

Here is a list of trees commonly used that can provide leaf fodder for various livestock:

• Acacia (Acacia species): Used to feed cattle and goats
• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus species): Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats
• Honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats
• Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala): Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats
• Mulberry (Morus species): Used to feed silkworms, goats, and rabbits
• Willow (Salix species): Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats
• Poplar (Populus species): Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats
• Mimosa (Acacia mearnsii): Used to feed cattle and goats
• Senna (Senna siamea): Used to feed cattle and goats
• Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium): Used to feed cattle, sheep, and goats

It’s important to note that the suitability of trees for livestock feed can depend on several factors, including the climate, soil conditions, and the species of tree and livestock. Before using a tree for livestock feed, it’s recommended to consult with a specialist and to properly research the species to ensure its safety and nutritional value for the intended livestock.

Tree Hay

Tree hay is a type of feed made from the dried leaves and branches of trees, typically acacia, poplar, mulberry, and willow species. It is commonly used as a source of roughage for livestock, especially in regions where traditional hay crops are scarce. Tree hay is a good source of fiber, protein, and can be fed to rabbits, cattle, sheep, and goats.

The process of making tree hay involves cutting branches or leaves from the trees at their peek growth and nutrient density, allowing them to dry, and then storing the dried material in a dry and well-ventilated area until ready to use. The dried material can then be fed to livestock as a supplement to their regular diet or is some cases, a complete replacement.

Like traditional hay, tree hay can also be used for bedding for livestock, helping to keep them warm and comfortable. However, it’s important to note that not all trees are suitable for use as tree hay and some trees may contain toxic compounds, so it’s essential to properly research the species of tree you’re considering for use as tree hay before using it.

Fermented Shredded Leaves

Fermented shredded leaves for livestock feed is a type of feed made by fermenting the leaves of trees or other plants. The process of fermenting the leaves helps to improve their digestibility and nutritional value for livestock. This type of feed can be an important source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals for livestock.

The process of making fermented shredded leaves involves harvesting the leaves, shredding them into small pieces, mixing them with water and an inoculum (such as yeast or lactic acid bacteria), and then allowing the mixture to ferment for several days. The fermented material can then be fed to livestock as a supplement to their regular diet.

Fermented shredded leaves can be made from a variety of plant materials, including leaves from trees, shrubs, and grasses. Some common species used for this type of feed include acacia, willow, and mulberry.

However, just like tree hay, it’s important to note that not all plant materials are suitable for use as fermented shredded leaves for livestock feed, and some materials may contain toxic compounds. Therefore, it’s essential to properly research the species of plant you’re considering for use as fermented shredded leaves before using it.

Small Branches

Small branches can be used as a source of roughage for livestock, especially in regions where traditional feed sources are scarce. Sticks are a good source of fiber and can help to maintain the digestive health of livestock by promoting chewing activity and providing roughage in the diet.

The process of using small sticks as livestock feed involves collecting small branches and twigs from trees or shrubs, cutting them into manageable lengths, and then offering them to the livestock to consume. Some common species used for this type of feed include willow, acacia, and poplar.

However, it’s important to note that not all trees and shrubs are suitable for use as livestock feed and some may contain toxic compounds. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a specialist or properly research the species of tree or shrub you’re considering for use as livestock feed before using it. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the sticks are free from pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals that may be harmful to the livestock.

Download: Trees For Livestock Feed Checklist PDF