Wait pays off in better maize silage
Initial analysis of maize crops harvested 10 days ago have shown low dry matter levels, of 26%, raising concern over effluent and acidity.
However, results show good starch levels, at over 30%. Waiting the extra few days to ensure optimum maturity has paid off, reckons Neil Groom, Grainseed technical manager.
“Those that have waited are clamping much better silage and with continuing dry weather, soil damage is not yet a problem.”
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FORAGE MAIZE HARVEST COUNTDOWN | ||||
Site | Drill date | Ht above sea level [m] | Crop dry matter 6 September | % increase |
Petworth, Sussex | 24 April | 50 | Harvested | |
Harleston, Norfolk | 27 April | 30 | 31.5 | 3.4 |
Crediton, Devon | 26 April | 118 | 33.3 | 3.4 |
Ticknall, Derbyshire | 25 April | 67 | Harvested | Â |
Hundlestone, Pembroke* | 26 April | 20 | 31.9 | 2.3 |
Leyburn, North Yorkshire* | 24 April | 140 | 31.2 | 2.2 |
SAC, Dumfries, Scotland | 26 April | 45 | 25.1 | 2.0 |
*Variety Nancis, all other sites are Es Agreement |
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