University Research on Perennial Peanut Hay
Explore a plain-language summary of UF and UGA forage findings, then use that context to compare hay options and plan your next order.
Quick Research Summary for Buyers
University forage research generally reports perennial peanut hay as a high-quality legume option with strong protein levels, good digestibility, and favorable palatability in many feeding contexts.
Outcomes vary by harvest stage, storage, animal class, and total ration design. Use this page as decision support and confirm feeding programs with your nutritionist or veterinarian.
General research ranges below are not our product specifications. For measured McDaniel Farms samples, view the 2026 Test Results by cutting and laboratory.
Scientific Evidence for Superior Nutrition
Higher Protein
Research consistently shows 18-25% crude protein content, significantly higher than grass hays
Better Digestibility
Studies demonstrate superior in vitro dry matter digestibility compared to traditional forages
Animal Performance
Multiple studies report positive feeding responses when perennial peanut hay is used appropriately
University of Florida Research
Nutritional Composition Studies
The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has conducted extensive research on perennial peanut hay nutritional value and livestock feeding applications.
Key Research Findings:
- Crude protein content ranges from 18-25%, comparable to alfalfa
- In vitro dry matter digestibility of 65-75%
- High calcium content (1.2-1.8%) beneficial for lactating animals
- Lower lignin content improves digestibility
Equine Feeding Studies
UF researchers have specifically studied perennial peanut hay in equine diets, including intake, nutrient profile, and practical ration use.
Horse Feeding Benefits:
- Often selected when lower non-structural carbohydrate forage is preferred
- Provides essential amino acids for muscle development
- High palatability and acceptance rates in feeding trials
- Can reduce supplemental protein needs in some programs, depending on ration goals
UF/IFAS Research Publications
"Perennial Peanut: Forage Nutritional Composition and Feeding Value"
UF/IFAS publication AN234 on forage nutritional composition and feeding value
View Study"Nutritional Evaluation of Perennial Peanut, Annual Peanut, and Tifton 85 Bermudagrass Hays in Horses"
2008 University of Florida master's thesis by Juliet V. Eckert
View Study"Rhizoma Perennial Peanut"
UF/IFAS publication SS-AGR-349/AG358 on establishment, management, and forage use
"Acceptability of Rhizoma Peanut Forage by Horses and Its Benefits on Feeding Behavior"
UF/IFAS publication AN390 on forage acceptance, feeding time, and equine behavior
View Publication"Sustainable Nitrogen in Livestock Systems: Forage Legumes vs. N Fertilizers"
UF/IFAS publication SS-AGR-489/AG484 on forage legumes, nitrogen efficiency, and livestock production
View PublicationUniversity of Georgia Research
Cattle Feeding Trials
UGA's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has conducted extensive cattle feeding trials comparing perennial peanut hay to traditional forages.
Cattle Performance Results:
- Several trials report stronger average daily gain versus some lower-protein grass hay programs
- Positive milk production responses are reported in some dairy ration comparisons
- Improved body condition scores in breeding cattle
- Reduced supplemental protein requirements
Digestibility Research
UGA researchers have focused on understanding the digestibility mechanisms that make perennial peanut hay superior to other forages.
Digestibility Findings:
- Total digestible nutrients (TDN) of 60-68%
- Rumen degradability studies show optimal protein release
- Lower fiber content contributes to higher digestibility
- Optimal particle size for rumen function
UGA Extension Publications
"Rhizoma Peanut Production and Utilization"
Production guidelines and feeding recommendations for livestock
View Study"Nutritive Value of Perennial Peanut for Beef Cattle"
Comprehensive feeding trials and economic analysis
View StudyResearch-Based Comparison
| Nutritional Parameter | Perennial Peanut Hay | Bermuda Hay | Alfalfa Hay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein (%) | 18-25 | 8-12 | 18-22 |
| TDN (%) | 60-68 | 50-58 | 58-65 |
| Calcium (%) | 1.2-1.8 | 0.3-0.5 | 1.2-1.7 |
| Digestibility (%) | 65-75 | 55-65 | 65-72 |
| Sugar Content (%) | 4-8 | 8-15 | 6-12 |
*Data compiled from University of Florida and University of Georgia research studies
Next Step: Move From Research to Purchase Planning
Estimate Delivery Savings
Delivery is $2.00 to $4.00 per loaded mile based on distance (GPS distance from McDaniel Farms). Pickup is free at our Cottondale farm.
Check Delivery DetailsTalk With the Farm Team
Get quantity guidance based on your herd size and use case.
Request Quote or Pickup SlotReference Sources and Industry Context
These external resources informed this educational page. They are provided for context and continuing education, while McDaniel Farms product decisions should be based on current lot data, availability, and your feeding goals.
Official Florida Resource
FDACS Perennial Peanut Hay
State-level summary of perennial peanut forage characteristics and related links.
Producer Association
Perennial Peanut Producers Association
Industry resources, membership listings, and practical perennial peanut information.
UF/IFAS Quick Reference
Perennial Peanut Fact Sheet
Practical quick-reference information focused on Florida perennial peanut forage.
Video Reference
High Quality Legume Hay Production Tour
Field-oriented visual context for perennial peanut production and handling practices.
Putting Research into Practice
At McDaniel Farms, we apply university research findings to produce the highest quality perennial peanut hay for your livestock's optimal nutrition and performance.
Educational content only. Feeding decisions should be finalized with a qualified advisor for your animals.
Science-Based Production
We follow research-proven harvest timing and storage methods to maximize nutritional value and digestibility.
Learn About Our MethodsQuality Testing
Review our available 2026 sample analyses from UF, UGA, and Equi-Analytical, including reporting basis, dates, and cutting averages.
View Test Results