By Blake Jackson
Ensuring hay and silage reach safe moisture levels is crucial, yet unpredictable weather poses challenges. Penn State Extension forage specialist, Guojie Wang, suggests hay preservatives and silage additives as solutions discussed at Penn State’s York County Crops Day.
For hay moisture below 30%, preservatives can be beneficial. Organic acids, ammonia-based products, and microbial additives are options. While organic acids are easily applied, they can be corrosive. Ammonia-based products, though effective, may pose hazards and both offer short-term solutions, potentially making hay wetter if left too long. Microbial additives like yeast cultures and enzymes are less researched.
Hay preservatives prove challenging for round bales.
Silage additives come in three types: inoculants with bacterial strains, chemical additives, and enzyme additives. Bacterial strains affect pH levels, with homofermentative strains increasing lactic acid, and heterofermentative bacteria converting it to acetic acid. Storage and application are vital for living organisms. Chemical additives, such as formic acids, preserve proteins, while others inhibit yeast and mold. Enzyme additives maintain silage integrity without altering it, offering versatility.
While safe and non-corrosive, silage additives can be costly. Wang emphasizes the importance of hay drying down for safe, high-quality forage. Maximum moisture content should be 20% for small bales, 18% for round bales, and 16% for large rectangular bales. Wang recommends strategic management for effective and cost-efficient drying rather than relying solely on preservatives or additives. The multifaceted nature of these options highlights the need for careful consideration and further research in optimizing hay and silage preservation methods.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Hay & Forage