The main annual crop that is used to provide forage is corn, which is harvested as silage. For more information on this crop, refer to the Corn section of this publication. There are many more options for annual forage crops. They can be part of a planned cropping program or an emergency remedy to provide feed when perennial forage crops are winterkilled or in short supply.
Annual forages are a valuable source of hay, pasture, silage or green feed.
Oats and barley are very adaptable for forage production. Both are used extensively as companion crops for perennial forage seedings and are usually harvested for silage. Cereals can also be used for hay or pasture. Cereals can be seeded at any time in the season. Early spring planting promotes maximum yields and production.