Unusual weather patterns in 2025 have created both opportunities and challenges for beef producers across Nebraska. Early-planted corn was harvested as early as late September and early October—among the earliest harvests in recent years. At the same time, late-summer rainfall combined with warm temperatures delivered excellent regrowth in bromegrass pastures. However, those same favorable conditions also triggered widespread germination of corn kernels left behind after harvest, resulting in extensive sprouted corn growth across many fields.
While some level of kernel sprouting occurs every year, this season stands out. In many early-harvested fields, dense patches of green corn sprouts—ranging from just a few inches tall to more than a foot—have emerged. These fields may look like high-quality forage, but they require careful evaluation and management before grazing to avoid health risks to cattle.
Before turning cows out onto corn residue fields, producers should first assess ear drop and overall residue conditions. Walking the field and estimating the number of dropped ears per acre is critical. If more than 15 ears are found across three 100-foot rows, management steps should be taken to limit grain intake, as excessive consumption can lead to digestive upsets and other metabolic problems.
One of the most significant concerns associated with sprouted corn is nitrate accumulation. While sprouting itself is common, the scale of regrowth seen in 2025 increases the potential risk. Nitrate levels can vary widely across a field, making testing essential before grazing. Producers are advised to collect representative samples, separating irrigated and dryland areas and sampling from multiple random locations. Plants should be clipped at ground level, with smaller plants (eight inches or less) bagged separately from taller plants. Samples should be sealed, frozen, and sent promptly to a commercial forage laboratory for nitrate analysis.
Although lush, rapidly growing corn sprouts are generally less risky than drought-stressed hay, they can still contain nitrate concentrations high enough to cause toxicity if not managed properly. Cattle should be gradually adapted to grazing these fields by limiting initial access and ensuring they are not overly hungry. Feeding hay beforehand is strongly recommended, as full cows are less likely to consume large quantities of sprouts quickly. Providing additional energy, such as grain, can also help reduce nitrate risk by improving rumen function.
Fields with moderate ear drop may actually be safer than those with only scattered kernels, as cattle tend to prefer eating whole ears rather than selectively grazing high-nitrate sprouts. Importantly, producers should remember that freezing temperatures do not reduce nitrate levels in plants, so cold weather does not eliminate risk.
Timing of turnout is another key management tool. Turning cows out after midday—once they have already eaten hay—allows producers to observe cattle during daylight hours and reduces the likelihood of rapid overconsumption.
The bottom line: With significantly more sprouted corn present in fields during the 2025 season, careful field evaluation, nitrate testing, and thoughtful grazing management are essential. By taking these precautions, producers can safely utilize valuable corn residue while protecting herd health and maximizing fall grazing opportunities.
