Good potential in this year’s maize crops looks set to give dairy farmers an opportunity to clamp decent tonnages of quality silage, which could provide a useful buffer with uncertain milk prices, says Volac silage expert, Ken Stroud.But it will be crucial to avoid common harvest pitfalls that let dry matter (DM) and nutrients slip away in the clamp.

With feed costs having approximately doubled in some cases, having good maize silage could be a huge asset this winter. Particularly if looking to capitalise on decent milk prices.

If you grow maize, chances are you’re serious about maximising milk from forage. Because maize silage is an ideal partner for grass silage, but have you ever considered about the number of ‘bad bugs’ - bacteria, yeasts and moulds.

Volac experts – the maker of the Ecosyl range of silage additives (including Ecocool) – have put together this step-by-step guide. It explains how to create high-quality nutritious maize silage, how and when to harvest, how to store it and what silage additives are recommended for optimal outcomes.

Good potential in this year’s maize crops looks set to give dairy farmers an opportunity to clamp decent tonnages of quality silage, which could provide a useful buffer with uncertain milk prices, says Volac silage expert, Ken Stroud. 

Good potential in this year’s maize crops looks set to give dairy farmers an opportunity to clamp decent tonnages of quality silage, which could provide a useful buffer with uncertain milk prices, says Volac silage expert, Ken Stroud. 

How much does your forage maize cost you to grow – including cultivations, seed, drilling, fertiliser, sprays, harvesting and clamping? No doubt it’s worth it. Maize is an energy-rich forage.

With the drive to farm sustainably, maize is an excellent source of homegrown starch and energy for dairy cows.