One of the most critical factors that drives a robust silage fermentation is the moisture content of the forage.

Silage can be created from nearly any forage crop, including grasses and legumes, but corn is often used because it is the most energy-dense. Putting up a crop as silage is a way to preserve forage quality through fermentation in an anaerobic environment.

Knowing the numbers and best practices for corn silage harvest can maximize your income over feed cost.

In most areas of the country, corn silage makes up a large percentage of a dairy cow’s diet. Producing high-quality corn silage is a process that involves several important steps. It starts with planting the right varieties that combine yield potential with ideal traits related to nutrient concentrations and digestibility.

Without question, you’ve heard “Corn is king and alfalfa is queen” spoken among agronomists, nutritionists and dairy farmers.