Grazing tumbleweeds

[Nicky]

We have been trying to get some range grass seeded in a problem area that had been strictly medusahead. The seeding hasn't gone all that well due to dry conditions but we did get a bumper crop of tumbleweeds! Cattle sure seem to like them before they get too prickly, and some websites say they are pretty good feed. So we were wondering if any of you have had similar situations, and if there are any drawbacks to grazing them, and what stage is best to graze them so they don't come right back.

Thanks!

 

[Big Muddy rancher]

Long time ago they put Russian Thistle up for feed. I have seen pictures of hay racks piled high with thistle and as a kid hauled small squares of thistle. Hard on gloves and jeans.
Guess they made OK feed but there wasn't much choice. Probably best to graze them hard while green.

 

[Shortgrass]

Get them right now while green & tender. Later, grass can hold its own if the weeds are grazed down.