J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1979. 49:298-305.
© 1979 American Society of Animal Science
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Effect of Covering and Dry Matter at Ensiling on Preservation of Alfalfa in Bunker Silos1

R. K. McGuffey and M. J. Owens2

South Dakota State University, Brookings 57007

Abstract

Alfalfa was ensiled in four bunker silos in a 2 x 2 factorial experiment with main effects being dry matter (DM) at ensiling (34% and 43%) and either covered or uncovered silos. Covering reduced silage temperature at various positions in the silos during 5 weeks of storage. Differences in temperature due to DM were small. Composition of silage in nylon bags (n=16 per silo) was used as an estimate of silage quality. Recovery of DM from bags was greater (P<.01) in 43% silage. Measures of pH and total acids indicated more fermentation occurred in 34% DM silages, whereas the effect of covering had no influence on the quantity of acids present. Total nitrogen (TN) was greater in 43% DM silage and silage from covered bunkers while nonprotein nitrogen and ammonia nitrogen was highest in 34% DM silage and silage from uncovered bunkers. Sheep digestibility of DM (DDM) organic matter (DOM) and nitrogen (ND) was greater for silage from covered bunkers. Dry matter at ensiling had no effect on DDM, DOM and ND. Growth and intake of heifers and bulls favored 43% DM silage and silage from covered bunkers. Chemical measures of quality and animal performance indicate alfalfa is more successfully ensiled at 43% DM and that bunker silos should be covered regardless of the DM of the ensiled forage.

Footnotes

1 Published with the approval of the Director of the South Dakota Agr. Exp. Sta. as Publication No. 1581 of the Journal Series.

2 Dairy Science Department.






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Copyright © 1979 by the American Society of Animal Science.