Maximising Wholecrop Silage for Livestock Performance

As cereal crops across Northern Ireland approach maturity, you should consider the significant benefits of harvesting cereals for wholecrop silage. With increasing pressure on forage stocks and a drive for greater self-sufficiency, wholecrop silage is proving a valuable addition to many livestock diets.

The key to successful wholecrop silage lies in harvesting at the right stage. The sweet spot is when the crop reaches 33–40% dry matter, you want the grain at a soft, cheesy texture—firm but not hard. This ensures the best balance of yield, starch content, and fermentation quality. Harvesting too early, results in lower starch, while crops left too late can become difficult to ensile and risk undigested grains passing through livestock.

Wholecrop silage offers a unique nutritional profile, providing both slowly digested starch and digestible fibre. This makes it an excellent complement to grass silage in dairy and beef rations. Dry matter intakes and better rumen health improve when wholecrop is included in the diet. It’s particularly valuable in balancing highly digestible forages reducing the need to feed straw.

One challenge with wholecrop silage, particularly at higher dry matters, is the risk of aerobic spoilage. Hollow cereal stems can trap air, creating the perfect environment for yeasts and moulds. MAGNIVA Platinum Wholecrop helps combat this a specialist silage additive proven to enhance fermentation and stability.

MAGNIVA Platinum contains specialist bacteria that rapidly drop the pH and inhibit spoilage organisms. Keeping silage cooler and fresher for longer, with less waste and more consistent quality. Farmers can also open the clamp as soon as two weeks after ensiling, which is a real advantage in tight forage situations

With input costs rising and weather patterns increasingly unpredictable, wholecrop silage offers flexibility and resilience for local farmers. It’s a practical way to make the most of your cereal crops and reduce reliance on bought-in feeds; by harvesting at the right time and using a proven additive like MAGNIVA Platinum, you can produce a high-quality forage that delivers real benefits for your livestock.

For further advice on wholecrop silage or to discuss the best options for your farm, contact your local Fane Valley Agronomist or call 028 9261 0485.