Crop Production

Susceptibility to fungal diseases, the incidence of which is higher in damp weather Weed control Low protein content in animal feeds High fertiliser requirements

QQsowing) or when soil temperatures have reached 10oC for three consecutive days.

The advantages of growing maize under plastic include:

Speeds up pollination and fertilisation Speeds up emergence of the crop Can extend the growing season, depending on the variety, which allows for greater photosynthesis and more time to ripen

Potential for higher starch, DE and ME levels in the crop

Fertiliser requirements: Relatively low nitrogen requirement, which peaks between the 8-leaf and grain development

Diseases: Fungi are the main culprits causing various conditions including eyespot, stalk rot and maize smut

Pests: Leather jackets, wireworms and corn borers Yield: 6.5-14.5 tonne DM/ha Use: Ensiled to produce maize silage, which is high in starch and fibre and digested slowly by the ruminant. Combines with grass silage which is

QQhigh in protein and sugars, the two combined complement one another as a feed. Methods to ensure high quality maize silage include:

Suitable chop length between 10-20mm

Use of additives to improve fermentation

Correct stage at harvesting to avoid problems with effluent and maintain quality

Effective compaction to expel air and secure sealing to ensure anaeorobic conditions

QQQQ