Immature Forage Mixtures with Citrus Pulp versus More Mature Forage without Additive for Silage

Abstract

Two forage mixtures, each ensiled at 2 stages of maturity, were compared using lactating dairy cows in a switchback feeding trial. Citrus pulp was added to the early-cut forage but not to the more mature forage. The mixture containing rye, rye grass, and crimson clover gave a higher yield of dry matter per acre at both dates of harvest than did a similar mixture which contained no rye. Likewise, the later stage of maturity resulted in a higher yield of each of the mixtures. Dry matter losses during the ensiling period were considerably higher in the early-cut material than those in the more mature forages. However, milk production was higher when the non-rye mixture was fed, and was higher at the early-cut stage of both forage mixtures.