Abstract: The objective of this study was to explore the feed processing technology of Salix babylonica leaves. Firstly, we characterized the changes of nutrient content of Salix babylonica leaves collected in six growth stages (leaf-expansion stage, early flowering stage, catkin flying stage, green stage, withered and yellow stage, and defoliation stage). Secondly, the nutrient content and fermentation quality of the silage products prepared with the leaves in six growth stages were determined and compared, respectively. Thirdly, the fermentation quality of the silage products prepared with the leaves in withered and yellow stage as well as defoliation stage with or without addition of lactic acid bacteria during fermentation process were compared, respectively. The results showed that from the perspective of nutrient content, the nutritional value of Salix babylonica leaves collected in leaf - expansion stage was similar to that of the high-quality leguminous forage;as the extension of growth stage, the nutrient content and feeding value of the leaves was decreased significantly. The silage products prepared with the leaves in six growth stages had no improvement in fermentation quality compared to the corresponding fresh leaves, and their feeding value was poor. However, the addition of lactic acid bacteria significantly improved the fermentation quality of the silage products prepared with the leaves in withered and yellow stage as well as defoliation stage. In conclusion, the Salix babylonica leaves in leaf-expansion stage are recommended to be fed to livestock directly;the leaves in other growth stages are recommended to be used as raw materials for preparation of silage with addition of lactic acid bacteria.