Maize values differ widely
Maize values differ widely
MAIZE crop values may differ by £450/ha (£180/acre) depending on variety choice, and producers should make an informed choice, says Kingshay Farming Trust.
The financial differences between varieties was highlighted by Kingshay studies last year which compared eight varieties grown at four marginal sites and eight varieties at three mainstream sites. Each crop was given an estimated feed value based on its dry matter yield, ME value and starch content.
"Some varieties differed between sites, but some varieties did well over all sites grown on," says Kinghays Richard Simpson.
Largest differences were found on the marginal sites in Cheshire, Leics, Glos and Cornwall, with an average difference of £452/ha (£183/acre) between varieties selected for marginal growing. Mainstream sites in Kent, Hants and Somerset showed less differences between the varieties. *