Factors affecting silage fermentation

sunny weather is obviously to be preferred for silage making. Wilting conditions will be improved and the possibility of soil contamination is minimised. 

Grass sugar levels are also likely to be highest in sunny weather. Grass mown in the afternoon of a sunny day has been shown to have maximum levels of sugars or water soluble carbohydrates (WSC). 

Cutting height is also important as cutting too low will increase the risk of soil contamination. In dense swards the residual height should be no lower than 5 cm, but 7.5-10 cm is advisable in more open crops. Cutting lower than this also reduces the seasonal yield as recovery of the crop will be slower. 

48 hour wilt and some additional tedding. A similar, or even higher, DM content is usual for big bale silage especially for that known as haylage and used as equine forage. 

Secondary fermentation or aerobic spoilage can occur when the silage is being fed. This is particularly the case if the rate at which a clamp is being used is fairly slow, or if the size of the face exposed is large. Aerobic bacteria, yeasts and 

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