• By April W Bowman
• Posted Friday, November 5, 2021

Beware of Potentially Deadly Cyanide Poisoning From Frosted Plants

Photo courtesy of https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/johnsongrass

Most areas had frost on November 5. There are some forages, such as Johnsongrass, sorghum, sudangrass, and others to avoid due to potentially deadly cyanide poisoning following a frost (or a stressful drought period). These plants naturally have cyanogenic glycosides in them, but are only toxic when the plant is damaged such as a freeze. The freeze releases cyanide gas. If your area had a light frost, the plant could be extremely toxic immediately and into regrowth. Do NOT graze these forages for at least two weeks or until the plant has turned completely dry and brown. Click here to learn more.

For more information, email, April Bowman, Extension Agent, Livestock, Forages, and 4-H Youth Development at awbowman@ncsu.edu or call 336-703-2855.