Cutting the forage with knives theoretically should improve fermentation, because it increases density and provides microbes with greater access to carbohydrates in the forage. Some balers have a chopping mechanism that can increase bale density and reduce particle size for ease in mixing rations. The minimum requirements are a mower, a rake, a baler capable of baling wet forage, a tractor with sufficient horsepower to carry these bales safely, a bale spear, and a wrapper. What Equipment Will I Need?Ī baleage system requires much the same equipment as a conventional hay system, with the addition of a wrapper and plastic. Although this process consumes some dry matter and digestible energy (mainly water-soluble carbohydrates), these losses are small compared to the dry-matter losses that result from raking, tedding, baling, and storing round bales as hay. The accumulation of lactic acid lowers the pH of the bale and inhibits the growth of detrimental microorganisms. Anaerobic microorganisms on plant surfaces then ferment some of the carbohydrates in the forage to lactic acid. When moist forage (40% to 60% moisture) is baled and wrapped in plastic, respiration and microbial activity inside the plastic quickly use up the available oxygen, creating an anaerobic environment. What Happens During the Baleage Fermentation and Storage ( Ensiling) Process? Many producers who want to harvest small grain crops with high nutritive value have found baleage to be a good fit for their operations. Baleage is ideal for spring cuttings of annual and perennial forages, when seasonally frequent rainfall makes it difficult to properly cure dry hay. Common Questions About Baleage Why Should I Consider Making Baleage?īaled silage allows forage to be harvested at higher whole-plant moisture levels than what is needed for dry hay. For more information on forage management, please contact your local county Extension office. Together with UGA Extension Bulletin 1532, Baleage Production and Use, this information will help producers better understand and use baleage. This publication focuses on common questions about baleage. Baled silage, or “baleage,” is an excellent method for forage harvest, storage, and feed efficiency.
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