Cottonseed

FAQs

 
 

Where does Cottonseed come from? 

Cottonseed is the seed of the cotton plant. The seeds are surrounded by fibers which grow from the surface of the seed. The fibers and lint is removed and used to make cotton thread and fabric.


What is Whole Cottonseed?

Compared with other commonly available protein feed supplements, whole cottonseed is the only feed filled with both high energy and high fiber. Whole cottonseed is recognized by farmers and ranchers as a cost-effective multi-nutrient feed for wildlife & livestock.


What are the benefits of Fortified Cottonseed?

Our cottonseed products are fortified with vitamins and minerals which help to support development of the fawn, milk production during lactation and antler growth.

Fortified Cottonseed was developed to maximize production and growth for wildlife with access to adequate forage..


What animals benefit from Whole Cottonseed/Fortified Cottonseed?

Whole Cottonseed has been used in feeding dairy and beef cattle for generations. Other livestock and wildlife species benefiting from its nutrients are goats, sheep, elk, whitetail & Mule Deer as well as several exotic species. Cottonseed for deer and these species have been known to increase lactation and horn/antler growth as well as the overall health.


How do I feed Whole Cottonseed/Fortified Cottonseed?

Plain Whole Cottonseed and a Fortified Cottonseed feed is a free choice feed. Fortified Cottonseed should be fed free choice with access to pasture forage. Consumption rates will depend on forage availability as well as season and production demands, but typically range from ½ to 2 pounds per head per day. It can be fed from a homemade basket, a manufactured cottonseed feeder, be poured in a feed trough or on the ground.


How much should I feed?

Most cottonseed is fed “Free Choice” the amount depends on herd type and size. If this is a new feed to your herd, top dress the cottonseed with corn until the animals are acclimated.


How is Fortified Cottonseed different from Whole Cottonseed?

Fortified Cottonseed is whole cottonseed plus a mineral pack with vitamins and a flavor attractant, cutting out the need to buy additional protein with your plain whole cottonseed.


How long have farmers been using Cottonseed?

Long before the Civil War, upland farmers east of the Mississippi River had used whole cottonseed as a fertilizer for wheat, oats, corn, and other crops. In Texas, during the 1800s the seed was used almost exclusively as a supplemental cattle feed. Source: https://tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/drc04