SILAGE TRENCH.

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LX, Issue 10771, 18 January 1932, Page 1

SILAGE TRENCH.

Speaking at a farmers’ meeting in Dannevirke recently reference to the value of ensilage, which is very popular In the Waikato, was made by Mr C. M. Hume, Federation supervisor of the Dominion Group Herd-testing Association, who presented a strong case for its use. He said it enabled grass to be kept in the leaf stage;, and as such it was equal to the best concentrated fods. Grass should never be allowed to get beyond the leaf stage if the full nutritive value were to be secured. It was almost impossible to make a really poorquality ensilage, and it was going to play an important part as a fodder in the future of dairy farming in New Zealand. Its value was also now recognised by sheep farmers. Mr Hume said he preferred the silage trench, as it provided the opportunity for the necessary consolidation by permitting the driving of horses and sweep through the trench as it was being filled, and also permitted easy carting out. Silage possessed the following advantages: It provided a high-class succulent fodder for any period of the year. For winter feeding It is cheaper than roots, and is as efficient a food except under special circumstances. When crops are properly ensilaged less of the nutrients are wasted by the process than are lost when the foliage is cut for hay. Silage from coarse plants is eaten practically without waste. Crops may be ensilaged when the weather does not permit hay-making. Roughage may be utilised as stock food. Weed seeds are destroyed when they have gone through the silage process. . Silage can be stored in a smaller space than hay. Silage can be made from all fodder plants that stock are allowed to eat. Silage is safe from birds, vermin and fire. Crops may be saved at their best, and pastures kept in good conditdn. Silage is the best insurance that a farmer can have. ■ ■ .