Forage Types

Production of high-quality corn silage depends on many factors – ranging from optimum growing conditions to ideal moisture levels at harvest to proper packing in the storage structure. However, one factor that dairy producers often overlook is selecting the appropriate hybrid for corn silage production.

Processed corn kernels in silage are readily digested, allowing cows to absorb more energy for milk production.

Since stored feed is almost two or three times more expensive per animal or per day than pasture, extending the grazing season is one way to reduce the need for stored feed.

In areas of excessive rainfall, many newly seeded alfalfa fields may show poor growth in wet or poorly drained fields which may be due to several diseases.

With so many choices available today, how can you decide which forage inoculants, if any, are right for your operation?

In its simplest form, a killing freeze is when temperatures get cold enough to kill all the top growth on the alfalfa plant.