Alfalfa is gaining popularity as the productivity of dairy cows increases. It has several characteristics that affect its suitability as a cattle feed:
– Nutritional value: Alfalfa is rich in protein, and also contains minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc, as well as vitamins.
– High digestibility: Alfalfa tends to have better digestibility compared to other grasses. This means that cattle can better absorb the nutrients in alfalfa, which can contribute to more efficient feed utilization.
– Fiber content: Alfalfa contains both soluble and insoluble fibers. Insoluble fibers, such as cellulose, affect digestion, while soluble fibers, such as pectin, can have a beneficial effect on the health of the cattle’s digestive tract.
– Resistant to adverse weather conditions: Alfalfa has a deep root system and tolerates water shortages well.
– Growth and yield: Alfalfa is a perennial plant and has the ability to regenerate after mowing. It can be mowed several times a season under the right conditions.
Alfalfa, despite its many advantages, is a demanding crop in preparing good quality haylage, Piotr Szybinski points out. It is quite woody, has thick, tall stems and low sugar content, and is difficult to ensile.
The solution is to use Sil-AGRO biological ensilicators. Sil-AGRO inoculants are recommended for ensiling alfalfa and other legumes, as well as whole grain crops.
Ensilage is composed of two species of bacteria:
– Pediococcus pentosaceus
– Lactobacillus buchneri
Sil-AGRO ensilages contain the enzymes beta-glucanase and xylanase.
They allow access to the interior of the plants to release sugar from them and ensure better fermentation.
Each farm differs in forage and machinery resources, herds have different nutritional needs. Many factors affect the yield of harvested forage. It is worth consulting
with a nutritional advisor to get even better quality haylage.
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