In this article, we tell you all about the importance of good forage and what we mean by good forage.
Good forage is the cornerstone of every dairy farm. Cows are ruminants and can produce milk from good forage. The quality of this forage is essential for farm profitability on every dairy farm. The bulk of a cow's diet consists of forage such as grass and maize. The cow is designed to eat small amounts throughout the day and on average consumes about 50 kg of forage daily. It is important to focus on the quality of forage; after all, it forms the basis of your income.
But what is good forage?
Good forage is easy to digest and sufficiently available at rumen level. It forms the basis of every ration. Good forage promotes the health of the cow and keeps her producing for longer; it regulates the right pH in the rumen and is a source of energy for beneficial microbes. Good forage ensures that the cow gets all the important fibre and nutrients she needs.
Optimum forage quality
Forage quality is influenced by several factors. To obtain good forage, you have to start with the soil on which it is grown. Healthy soil is essential for the development of strong, healthy plants. It makes plants less susceptible to diseases, pests and stress and ensures optimal performance. To achieve the optimum quality and yield of a crop, choosing the right grass seed mix or maize variety is essential.
Next, it is all about the right time and the right way to process the forage. Silage management starts with determining the right cutting stage and cutting height. Then you look at what products you use to ensure that the silage is preserved quickly and correctly, minimising the risk of heating. But that's not all. Cows don’t like warm feed, so it is crucial to feed forage in a cool place. And feeding quickly is vital in order to prevent overheating.
Want to know more about good forage or to contact our specialists to see how we can optimise this on your farm? Feel free to contact us.
