Unlocking nutrition from bumper maize silage

Cyclone Gabrielle and atrocious weather decimate a lot of last year's maize crops.

Fast forward 12 months and the central and northern North Island have produced excellent crops with farmers expecting yields in the high 20 tonnes per hectare, according to Pioneer farm systems manager Wade Bell who recently presented to the SealesWinslow team. Canterbury and the Central Plateau are also producing record yields.

SealesWinslow nutrition and quality manager Paul Drew says as harvesting gets underway, many factors can influence maize silage quality from the chop length to kernel integrity and how you manage your stack.

"Harvest time, longer chop lengths and cracked kernels enhance the availability of nutrients, while proper stack management, including drainage and covering prevents, spoiage and mould growth," says Paul.

"Farmers should consider their maize silage harvest timing carefully. Maize silage should be harvested when whole plant dry matter is approximately 35%. An indicator of this is where the milk line is two-thirds of the way down the kernel. To confirm this, a sample should be tested, using a suitable method or in a laboratory. Harvesting at the right time ensures a better silage yield, maximising starch content and promotes good fermentation through the ensiling process."

Farmers should aim for a chop length of arond 15-20mm for the best packing density in the stack and fermentation. Using well-maintained forage harvesters with sharp blades will also achieve a clean cut and minimise kernel damage.

Proper compaction in the silage stack is also crucial for removing oxygen and promoting good anaerobic fermentation.

"It's all about doing the basics well," says Paul. "Use heavy packing equipment and compact layers to achieve a dense stack. Stacks should also be well sealed to create an airtight seal and prevent spoilage."