Relationships among plant moisture, plant yield components and quality of whole-plant maize (Zea Mays.) silage
1977
Appiah-Asamoah, S., Department of Crop Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana | Hunter,B. R., Department of crop Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
A study was designed to examine the effect of harvest date on yield, moisture content and in vitro digestible dry matter (IVDDM) per cent of two maize varieties recommended for use in Ghana. The study, conducted at the A study was designed to examine the effect of harvest date on yield, moisture content and in vitro digestible dry matter (IVDDM) per cent of two maize varieties recommended for use in Ghana. The study, conducted at the University Farm, Legon, Ghana also examined the relationships between DM yield, moisture content and quality. It is generally considered that maize should be harvested for whole plant corn silage when whole plant moisture level is between 62 and 70%. These moisture levels favour desirable fermentation in the ensiling process and allow for high dry matter (DM) intake by animals. In this study, 62-70% whole plant moisture occurred at from 5 to 6 weeks after anthesis. At this time, grain moisture was approximately 38-43% and maximum grain yield was not yet attained. In addition, maximum IVDDM per cent was not attained. However, it would not be practical to delay harvest until maximum IVDDM since this would result in a reduction in total DM yield and poor ensiling due to the excessive dryness of the maize.
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