HERFS/AUTUMN BONUS TYDSKRIF 2026

www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com leading to imbalanced nutrient intake. This selective feeding disrupts rumen function and increases the risk of metabolic disorders such as subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). 6. Handling and storage complications: Dry silage tends to have lower packing density, making it harder to exclude oxygen during ensiling. The more oxygen available, the higher the risk of spoilage and dry matter losses. Key considerations before cutting silage to prevent drymaize silage issues The following points should be considered before the silage crop is cut to minimise the issues associated with dry maize silage: • Harvest at optimal moisture (30–35% DM) to promote good fermentation. • Use effective kernel processing to enhance starch availability. • Apply silage inoculants to improve fermentation in marginal conditions. • Ensure proper packing and sealing to exclude oxygen. The above measures are critical when making the silage, but sometimes dry silage is unavoidable. Once the silage is made; there are still measures that can help reduce the negative aspects of the dry silage: • Monitor face management at the silage bunker to minimise spoilage. • Balance the ration with other forages or wet ingredients to adjust moisture and palatability. Other raw materials on the farm or purchased can help improve the digestibility of the dry silage and can also help improve the rumen environment. Molasses is a readily fermentable sugar source that can significantly enhance digestion. Other products like yeast-based probiotics, prebiotics and other fibre-digesting enhancing products can be added to the diet. Mycotoxin binders can help reduce the negative effects toxins can have on animal health and support a healthy and high- producing dairy cow. Conclusion Maize silage is a valuable feed source; its value is heavily influenced by the moisture content at harvest and ensiling. Sometimes it cannot be helped or controlled, as farming has many challenges that are uncontrollable, such as the weather, and farmers are faced with the challenge of feeding dry maize silage. There are still some measures that can be taken, and they need to be considered seriously as the negative implications on cow health and performance can result in significant financial losses from lower production, higher cow health costs and lower fertility. Make feeding drymaize silage easier, get practical tips and support fromyour local De Heus technical advisor to keep your cows healthy and productive – https://www.deheus.co.za/meet-our-team/. www.agribonus.co.za Herfs/Autumn 2026 BONUS 73