This video explains how to build and manage a silage silo silo, focusing on the key steps to obtain quality silage.
The dimensions of the silo
Silo dimensions are important for silage quality and ease of management. Several factors must be taken into account, such as:
The needs of the herd: How much fodder do you need per day?
Dry matter loss: The type of fodder and its moisture content influence the loss of dry matter.
The target recovery rate: The quantity of silage you take each day.
The length of the silo: It depends on the number of cows and the quantity of silage you want to store.
The width of the silo: It must be sufficient to allow tractors to move easily.
The construction of the silo
The construction of the silo must be carried out carefully to ensure good compaction of the silage and avoid mold problems. In particular, it is necessary to:
Prepare the ground: Level the ground and remove rocks and debris.
Building the walls: Walls can be made of concrete, wood, or concrete blocks.
Compact the bottom of the silo: It is important to compact the bottom of the silo well to prevent water from entering.
Silage compaction
Compaction is essential to obtain dense and good quality silage. Powerful tractors and wide tires should be used to compact silage into layers of 10 to 15 cm.
The silo cover
The silo should be covered with plastic sheeting to prevent air and water from entering. It is important to seal the tarp securely around the edges of the silo.
The resumption of silage
Silage must be taken up carefully to avoid losses of dry matter and the development of mould. In particular, it is necessary to:
Use suitable equipment: There are various types of equipment for collecting silage, such as cups or silage removers.
Adapt the recovery rate: The recovery rate depends on the outside temperature and the density of the silage.
Clean the silo facade: It is important to clean the silo facade after each restart to avoid the development of mold.
Conclusion
By following these key steps, you can successfully build and manage a silo aisle to obtain quality silage. Good silage will allow your animals to benefit from a nutritious diet throughout the year.