With the weather warming up, haylage/baleage production will be right around the corner. The JFM Dairy Team would like to remind producers of some tips to make good forage.
Decide what you are going to make before cutting. Look at the forecast, develop a plan and stick to it to maintain quality. Quality should be considered before quantity. Harvesting early will capture the highest protein and energy of the feed. Moisture is very important to ensure proper fermentation. When feed is to too dry, proper fermentation doesn’t occur, but if the feed is too wet it can become sour and unpalatable. If making baleage, make sure to wrap quickly and thickly. Bales should be wrapped immediately with a minimum of 6mm of wrap to prevent spoilage.