Producing High Feed Value Grass Silage

Producing high feed value grass silage for sheep requires strategic management to maximise nutritive value and profitability. Key factors include optimising nitrogen (120 kg/ha first cut, 100 kg/ha second cut), phosphorus and potassium based on soil tests, and harvesting before seed head emergence to maintain digestibility. Target dry matter levels of 25% for clamp silage and 30% for baled silage ensure quality. Rapid wilting, proper chop length, and immediate, airtight ensiling are critical. High digestibility (DM digestibility >75%, DOMD >71%, ME >11.4 MJ/kg DM) directly improves ewe condition, lamb growth, and reduces concentrate needs.