8/20/2006:
While Russian thistle is usually a problem, the noxious weed proved to be a solution for farmers through the Great Depression. The Litchville Bulletin reported today in 1936 the advantages and directions for using Russian thistle as feed, hay, or silage.
According to J.C. Haney of the Agricultural Extension Department of the International Harvest Company, if thistle is cut in full bloom before the spikes get hard, the thistle could be stacked or put in a silo to make feed that is equal to alfalfa and sweet clover.
The Hillsboro Banner also provided information on Russian thistle and reported that dry thistle could be made into silage by chopping and packing it into a trench silo with water. While the North Dakota Agricultural College recommended mixing the thistle with corn or other grain, Haney said it is okay to feed it to cattle straight, though he did warn that it could act as a laxative.
Though some farmers questioned if it was worth it to put up with the thorny weed, Haney said there is no question as to the feeding value of Russian thistle. “Considering the heat and drought, it may be fortunate that there is a plant that has made any growth at all,” wrote Haney.
By Tessa Sandstrom
Sources:
Haney, J.C.. “Russian thistle may save day for farm stock,” Litchville Bulletin. August 14, 1936: 7.
“Silo improves thistle hay,” Hillsboro Banner. August 24, 1934: 7.