Producing consistent high-quality silage, with good dry matter, helps to improve feed intakes, and reduces bought-in feed costs.
There are two critical stages in the silage-making process: maximising feed value and preserving it during ensiling. In the preservation stage, the use of silage inoculants can enhance fermentation and quality.
Silage inoculants increase the number of beneficial bacteria present during the ensiling process, leading to a good fermentation with a rapid drop in pH – ideally down to between 3.7 and 4.2.
This inhibits the growth of undesirable bacteria and moulds, and prevents protein and dry-matter losses. Choosing a silage inoculant tailored to predicted feed requirements is essential for maximising silage quality.
Similarly, ensiling protocols, including achieving the ideal pH levels and effective clamp sealing, also play key roles in preserving feed quality and ensuring maximum silage density.
Producers should review silage inoculant requirements as soon as possible and ensure they can source their number one choice of inoculant in good time. ForFarmers offers a wide range of silage inoculants to suit all forage crops.
Contact our dedicated team of forage specialists for advice and how we can help your business.
