This video talks about silage inoculants, products that are added to silages to improve their fermentation. The video explains the different types of inoculants available and how to choose them according to the type of silage and storage conditions.
Here are the highlights of the video:
Inoculant types
There are two main categories of inoculants:
Homolactic: These bacteria produce lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the silage and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. They are recommended for grass, alfalfa and other legume silages.
Heterolactic: These bacteria produce lactic acid and other compounds, such as propionic acid and ethanol, which also have antimicrobial properties. They are recommended for corn and cereal silages, which are more likely to develop molds and yeasts.
There are also mixtures of homolactic and heterolactic inoculants.
Choosing the right inoculant
The choice of inoculant depends on several factors, including:
The type of silage: Grass, corn, alfalfa, cereals, etc.
Storage conditions: Temperature, humidity, etc.
Potential problems: Molds, yeasts, development of harmful bacteria, etc.
It is important to consult a specialist or retailer for advice on choosing the right inoculant for your situation.
Recommendations
The video also shows some recommendations for using inoculants:
Adhere to good silage management practices, such as length of cut, compaction, and silo closure.
Do not exceed recommended doses of inoculant.
Choose an inoculant adapted to the type of silage and storage conditions.
Consult a specialist or retailer for advice.
Conclusion
Silage inoculants can be a valuable tool for improving silage quality and reducing dry matter losses. However, it is important to choose the right inoculant and use it properly for the best results.