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.”

 

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
 
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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