The 11 Commandments

In order to fully benefit from the advantages of bale silage, the "rules of the game" should be observed. All measures should aim to preserve the high nutrient content of the fodder and safeguard hygiene.

The table below highlights the key aspects to consider when making silage:

The 11 commandments for successful bale silage production

  1. High proportion of valuable forage grass
  2. Fertilisation according to demand
  3. Cutting at the time of ear or panicle emergence of the dominating plant
  4. Height of cutting approximately 5 – 10 cm depending on risk of soiling
  5. Rapid pre-wilting to desired dry matter content (35 – 55 %)
  6. Chopping of crop to allow for higher compression and better substrate availability
  7. Optimum compression of crop, aiming for 200 – 220 kg of dry matter / m3
  8. Addition of silage inoculants if necessary and according to planned use
  9. Using high quality film with 55 – 70 % pre-stretching
  10. Using a minimum of 6 layers for cow and 8 or more layers of film for horse silage for increased safety against damage and better air seal
  11. Handling and storing bales very carefully

Download the “The 11 Commandments for Successful Bale Silage Production” guide