Unlock the Power of Wholecrop Cereal Silage: Boost Yields & Maximise Nutrition

Wholecrop silage produced from cereals is an excellent alternative forage which has nutritional benefits for livestock, while also being cost effective to grow.

Wholecrop cereal silage offers a unique blend of energy, protein from the grain and digestible fibre from the straw. This balance is particularly beneficial for livestock, as it complements grass silage and reduces reliance on purchased feed. The fibre in wholecrop silage is digested slowly in the rumen, balancing the ‘fast energy’ from high D-value grass silage and concentrate feeding. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy rumen environment.

Wholecrop cereal silage is a valuable addition to dry cow diets due to its balanced nutritional profile. The high fibre content supports digestive health, while the starch provides necessary energy. Wholecrop cereal silage is typically lower in potassium compared with grass silage and its inclusion can reduce the risk of milk fever.

Wholecrop silage provides a cost-effective, consistent quality forage with yields ranging from 10 to 14 tons per acre. At harvest, dry matter typically falls between 28-40%, protein ranges from 9-15%, and starch from 15-30%, depending on the crop mixture and harvest stage. It can be grown in most soil types and can offer a great alternative to maize where land is not suitable for its growth.

To get the most from a crop of wholecrop silage it is important to get the agronomy right. It is crucial to have the soil analysed to see what the crop requirement is and create a fertiliser plan based on the organic manures and balancing this with chemical fertiliser. Fane Valley’s team of BASIS qualified agronomists can then advise on the correct management to ensure that the crop stays free of weeds and disease to maximise crop yield and quality.

Find out more about growing wholecrop silage by contacting your local Fane Valley Agronomist or calling 028 9261 0485.