This video compares maize silage and BMR sorghum silage for dairy cattle.
Here are the highlights of the video:
Differences between sorghum and maize
Cost of production: Sorghum has a lower production cost than maize.
Water requirements: Sorghum has lower water requirements than maize.
Yields: BMR sorghum produces similar yields to maize.
Nutritive quality: BMR sorghum has lower starch content and higher fiber content than corn.
Maturity stages: The optimal maturity stage for BMR sorghum is flowering.
Impact on the performance of dairy cows
Food intake: BMR sorghum may slightly decrease food intake.
Milk production: BMR sorghum may slightly decrease milk production.
Milk fat content: BMR sorghum can have a variable effect on milk fat content.
Protein production: BMR sorghum can have a variable effect on protein production.
Recommendations for the use of sorghum BMR
Choosing adapted hybrids: It is important to choose BMR sorghum hybrids that have been tested under conditions similar to those in Quebec.
Harvest at the optimal stage: BMR sorghum should be harvested at the flowering stage for the best results.
Manage dry matter content: The optimal dry matter content for BMR sorghum silage is 45 to 50%.
Hashing: BMR sorghum should be chopped to an appropriate length to optimize consumption by cows.
Avoid leachate losses: It is important to take steps to avoid leachate losses when storing BMR sorghum silage.
Supplement the diet: It may be necessary to supplement the diet of dairy cows fed with BMR sorghum with energy concentrates.
Conclusion
BMR sorghum is a promising alternative to maize silage for dairy cattle. It can provide economic and environmental benefits, while maintaining satisfactory animal performance. However, it is important to choose the hybrids well, to harvest at the optimal stage and to manage the silage properly to obtain the best results.