Quality Silage

The ideal wilt window when harvesting small-grain forages for silage is at least 32% dry matter (DM), and preferably to greater than 35% DM, following mowing. Hitting this critical wilt window is important.

Silage additives and inoculants are typically incorporated into silage crops to help balance deficiencies in bacteria population and support an efficient fermentation process.

New university research looks at increasing corn silage in diets and if it can help improve your operation’s bottom line.

A perfect storm of winterkill and late first-crop harvest means many producers will be dealing with poor forages this feeding season.

Harvest at the right maturity to achieve the right level of digestibility.

Here's a comparison on a number of varieties and models

Research shows how to use the feed bunk to get more productivity out of your cows while reducing costs at the same time.

An increase in starch digestion may lead to better nutrient utilization and decreased feed costs. However, starch digestibility of WPCS may be affected by several factors.

Planting early is always best, but when that’s not possible, what does it mean for corn silage quality and yield? We’ll explore both with agronomist Dr. Kraig Roozeboom.

What’s more effective: dry granular or liquid forage inoculant? Although dry granular products may seem easier, they can be less effective. Learn why.

Two crucial components to corn silage are moisture and the harvesting process. Learn the best ways to measure your plant moisture and key factors for a successful harvest.

The “perfect” chop length can benefit both ensiling and forage quality. Yet, finding the correct chop length is easier said than done.

When it comes to first-cut alfalfa, it’s best to start with the end in mind – know what quality and yield are needed for your dairy or beef cows. Higher-quality alfalfa silage can increase your relative feed value. For dairy and beef producers, this can help improve animal performance while maintaining profitability.

Are there ensiling challenges that result from using a shredding processor? Find out more about the pros and cons of shredding processors here.

Ensure you have enough old-crop silage on-farm.

Your planting and harvest schedule should match feed needs.

To hit peak profit, consider your input costs and try reducing the unnecessary while allocating funds in areas that show a return or reduce risk, like soil testing and crop insurance.

Concerned about your stored corn silage? Nutrition expert John Goeser shares what he’s seeing in the lab and what you can expect from a silage quality and digestibility perspective.

Forage quality is the Achilles’ heel for any ruminant nutritionist. The better the forage is coming out of storage, the better the nutritionist.

Find out how fermentation analysis can help identify performance problems in your herd.