The science of silage: how fermentation drives quality

Mastering silage making – from field to feed

Join our expert series with Rafael Camargo do Amaral, Ph.D.

Sign up for this first webinar and you will be automatically enrolled for all seven webinars with a step-by-step guide to improving silage quality, reducing losses, and maximizing farm profitability.

 

See overview of the series here.

 

Webinar 1. The science of silage: how fermentation drives quality – 20 May 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• What happens during fermentation and why it matters

• The role of bacteria, moisture, and oxygen in silage preservation

• How to optimize fermentation for higher-quality feed

Why it matters: Gain a strong foundation in silage science, helping you make informed decisions at every step.

 

Webinar 2. Harvest timing: when to cut for maximum nutritional value – 28 May 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• The best time to harvest maize, grass, and other crops for silage

• How dry matter content impacts fermentation and digestibility

• Common mistakes that lead to nutrient loss and poor fermentation

Why it matters: Timely harvesting is crucial for silage quality—this session helps you discover strategies to maximize energy and protein levels.

 

Webinar 3. Chopping, filling and packing: the oxygen battle begins – 6 June 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• Ideal chop length and kernel processing for different crops

• How to improve digestibility and energy availability for livestock

• The role of machinery settings in achieving the best results

• Best practices for fast and efficient silo filling

• The importance of compaction: achieving the right density

• Common pitfalls that lead to spoilage and dry matter losses

Why it matters: Proper chopping and processing enhance feed efficiency, reducing waste and optimizing silage production. Good packing ensures fermentation success and prevents financial losses due to spoilage.

 

Webinar 4. Sealing strategies: locking in quality for the long run – 10 June 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• The right way to seal silos and bunker pits

• Choosing the best plastic covers and oxygen barriers

• How to monitor for leaks and maintain an airtight seal

Why it matters: Proper sealing minimizes spoilage, preserving more high-quality feed for the herd.

 

Webinar 5. Using silage inoculants: the key to more control and better feed – 2 July 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• What silage inoculants do and how they improve fermentation

• When and how to apply inoculants for best results

• How to select the right product based on your crop and goals

Why it matters: Inoculants help reduce dry matter losses, improve stability, and enhance feed value—learn how to use them well.

 

Webinar 6. Feeding out: how to keep your silage fresh until the last bite – 6 July 2025, 4–5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• The best techniques for removing silage to prevent secondary spoilage

• How to manage feed-out rates to reduce losses

• Recognizing and preventing heating and mold issues

Why it matters: Silage spoilage at feed-out leads to financial losses and animal health risks—in this session, learn to avoid that.

 

Webinar 7.  Measuring silage success: 10 key performance pndicators – 31 Jul 2025, 4-5 p.m. CEST

Key learning points:

• The top metrics to track for silage quality and performance

• How to interpret dry matter losses, pH, and fermentation profiles

• Tools and tests to ensure consistent, high-quality silage

Why it matters:  Learn how to assess and improve their silage-making process, ensuring better results year after year.

01:00:41 minutes
Tags: 2025; ABU: silage