Maize Silage Alternative Forage

Growing in popularity as a high energy forage as it has the potential to produce high dry matter yields ( 13.5 tonnes - 17 tonnes / hectare) under the correct conditions.

Dry matter yields and quality will be influenced by factors such as site selection, variety, time of sowing, seeding rate and whether the crop is sown with or without plastic.

Maize performs best on medium to heavy soil types but the site must be free draining.

Quality parameters used to assess feeding value of maize include ME value, dry matter content and starch contents. The target values for ME would be 11 or greater, and a minimum of 28 % both in the case of dry matter and starch.

Maize can be fed up to 99% of the forage component of ruminant diets but 75 % is the usual maximum inclusion rate.  Maize silage is not only low in protein but it is also deficient in a number of minerals and trace elements. Correct supplementation is therefore essential.

Alan is available through our Farm Services Centre at 1890 4747420 or at 087 2901663 or by email at hursta@lakeland.ie

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