Comparison of the nutrient content and in situ degradability of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and alfalfa hays

Mature fenugreek and alfalfa were harvested as hay and compared with alfalfa cut at 10% bloom on the basis of proximate and mineral composition, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in situ degradation characteristics. IVDMD of fenugreek was 73.1%, which was the highest (P < 0.05). The dry matter degradation characteristics in the rumen of fenugreek and alfalfa cut at 10% bloom were similar. These results suggest that mature fenugreek hay was comparable in nutrient content and digestibility to early cut alfalfa.