By Andi Anderson
Corn silage is an important feed source for livestock operations, especially dairy farms. However, weather conditions and crop diseases can create challenges during harvest. In some growing seasons, excessive rainfall and increasing disease pressure may cause corn silage to become drier than the recommended level before harvest. This can affect fermentation and long-term feed quality.
According to Jason Hartschuh, Assistant Professor, Extension Field Specialist, Dairy Management and Precision Livestock, The Ohio State University, many producers are facing challenges from continuous rainfall and diseases that damage corn plants.
Common diseases such as tar spot, gray leaf spot, and northern corn leaf blight can kill plant leaves prematurely.
As a result, the crop may dry down faster than expected, even when it has not yet reached the traditional half to three-quarter milk line stage often used for silage harvest decisions.
One major concern with overly dry silage is poor fermentation. Moisture plays a key role in helping beneficial bacteria preserve the forage. When silage becomes too dry, it is more difficult to pack tightly inside storage structures. Poor packing leaves excess air pockets that increase oxygen exposure and create conditions for feed losses.
The article states, “Silage can be too dry for proper fermentation.” This situation can lead to several problems, including spoilage, heating, mold growth, and reduced feed quality. These issues can lower the nutritional value of stored feed and increase economic losses for livestock producers.
Proper dry matter levels vary depending on the type of storage structure being used. Recommended moisture targets suggest that bunker silos should contain approximately 35% dry matter. Upright concrete stave silos perform best at around 40% dry matter, while steel sealed silos can handle up to 45% dry matter. Silage stored in bags is generally recommended at about 40% dry matter. When these levels are exceeded, the risk of spoilage increases significantly.
As silage becomes drier, management practices become even more important. Producers should focus on maximizing packing density and minimizing oxygen exposure during filling and storage. Effective sealing techniques help prevent air infiltration and support better fermentation conditions. Careful harvest timing and close monitoring of crop moisture can also improve storage outcomes.
Although weather and disease challenges cannot always be controlled, proper silage management can help reduce risks. By paying close attention to moisture levels, storage methods, and packing practices, producers can protect feed quality and preserve valuable forage supplies for their livestock operations throughout the year.
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Categories: Ohio, Business