Sold on silage

摘要

As corn hybrids stretch their geographic range, more backgrounders are adding silage to growing rations. Silage hybrids continue to be adapted for a wider geographic range and varying agronomic conditions. Thus, silage is being counted on in more backgrounding and specialty feeding operations. Many of those producers are turning to the economy of open pits or bunkers to make and store silage. Under those conditions, the basic rule of ensiling becomes increasingly critical - keep the air out. Silagequality may be more important in backgrounding rations than in finishing rations, says. Mike Harkness, Scott City, KS. He's owner of Harkness Cattle & Land - a cattle enterprise that includes cattle backgrounding and finishing. "There's a higher percentage of silage in the backgrounding ration," says Harkness. "And it's just good feeding practice to give those young and growing cattle the best feed you have." Whether it's his own crop or corn purchased locally, Harkness says there's no substitute for agood chop and proper packing to keep the air out, especially when putting silage up in a bunker. He likes a 1/4-in. cut and packs with his heaviest-wheeled tractor.