Bermuda hay (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season perennial grass widely cultivated as a forage crop, particularly across the southern and central United States. It is highly valued for its aggressive growth, high yield potential, and exceptional drought tolerance, making it a substantial feed source for livestock, including horses. Bermuda hay thrives in warm climates where cool-season grasses struggle during the summer months.
Identifying Bermuda Grass Cultivars
Bermuda grass used for hay production is typically grown from sterile hybrid varieties rather than common, seeded types. These hybrids are established from vegetative cuttings called sprigs, allowing producers to select for specific traits like increased yield or improved forage quality. Coastal Bermuda is the most commercially widespread variety, remaining the standard against which others are measured.
Newer varieties, such as Tifton 44 and Tifton 85, offer superior characteristics. Tifton 44 has finer stems and increased winter hardiness, making it adaptable to slightly cooler regions. Tifton 85, a cross with stargrass, is visually distinct due to its larger stems and broader leaves, and is noted for higher digestibility despite its coarser appearance. Finer-stemmed varieties are often preferred by horse owners, as thicker stems can be left uneaten, leading to waste.
Nutritional Composition and Feeding Suitability
The nutritional content of Bermuda hay varies significantly based on the maturity of the grass at harvest; earlier cutting yields higher quality forage. When harvested optimally, the hay provides moderate nutrients suitable for many horses. Crude Protein (CP) content typically ranges from 8% to 12%, though very early cuts can reach 15% and overly mature hay can drop to 5% or less.
Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN), representing the energy value, generally fall between 50% and 60%. Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC), including sugars and starches, are usually low, which is beneficial for horses with metabolic concerns. This low-NSC profile, combined with moderate energy and protein levels, makes Bermuda hay an excellent choice for mature horses at maintenance or those in light work.
Horses in heavy work, growing young stock, or lactating mares often have protein and energy requirements that exceed Bermuda hay alone. For these animals, the hay must be supplemented with a concentrated feed or combined with a higher-protein forage, such as alfalfa. A forage analysis is always recommended to precisely determine the hay’s nutrient profile and ensure a balanced diet.
Addressing Common Health Concerns
A primary concern associated with feeding Bermuda hay is the potential for ileocecal impaction colic, a blockage in the small intestine. This risk is linked to the fine, dense, and less-digestible nature of the fiber, especially when harvested at an overly mature stage. If horses do not consume enough water, these fine fibers can compact in the narrow ileocecal junction, creating a life-threatening obstruction.
Mitigating this risk involves ensuring constant access to fresh water, especially during colder months when thirst may be reduced. Soaking the hay before feeding can increase the moisture content of the ingested material, aiding its passage through the digestive tract. Using a mixed forage diet that includes coarser-stemmed hay, such as Timothy or Orchard grass, can also promote better gut motility.