Summer pits dry, but with better protein content

The Dutch summer silages are more sensitive to heat than last year, but despite the drought they do not score deplorably. This is apparent from an analysis by Eurofins. In addition to an increased sensitivity to forcing, the summer silages contain a relatively large amount of sugar and also more protein compared to last year.

This year's summer silages are very dry with a dry matter content of over 50%. As a result, the forcing index scores historically high at 40, certainly compared to the average of 30. Due to the drought, the conservation index scores low with a score of 85. The potholes are less easy to approach, which means that the conservation process is less successful. Despite the fact that the pits are dry, the nutritional values ​​are quite good.

Values
Despite the fact that the dry matter content is very high at 526 (2019: 491) the pits are not 'lignified'. The NDF (digestibility) is at 509-, the ADF (amount of cellulose + part of the lignin) is at 276- and the ADL (lignin content) comes out at 26 grams per kilo of dry matter.

With an average of 90 grams per kilo of dry matter, the sugar content is relatively high. The protein content, on the other hand, scores an average of 171 grams per kilo of dry matter for a summer silage. Compared to last year's protein content (166 grams/kg dry matter), the silages score better this year. The quality of the protein also leaves much to be desired with a DVE of 65 (2019: 61).

Advice
Eurofins advises that (dairy) farmers can best keep the feed rate high with these values ​​and the high dry matter content in the silage. This is the best way to prevent overheating. They also recommend using an silage agent in subsequent, comparable summers to lower the pH more quickly.

With a view to the autumn silage, Eurofins also gives advice on how to achieve a good protein yield. They indicate, among other things, that when there is room for it, they still apply nitrogen fertilizer. The plot can still be mowed before the gift to give the grass a good chance to create nice levels in the autumn.

Jorine Cosse

Editor at Boerenbusiness who studies the dairy, pig (meat) and feed markets. Jorine analyzes the roughage market on a weekly basis and periodically the compound feed market.

j.cosse@boerenbusiness. Nl

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