A short survey of key silage-making practices on Northern Ireland dairy farms, and farmer perceptions of factors influencing silage quality

Abstract Northern Ireland dairy farmers (n = 174) were surveyed to identify key silage-making practices, and factors perceived influence the quality of grass silage made on their farms. The majority (65%) harvested for three times/year: 62% normally used a contractor, while 47% routinely additive. Delays mowing delays harvesting due adverse weather or poor ground conditions have large very impact (68% 53% farmers, respectively). Inadequate wilting, poor-quality swards owned land, rented land “contamination” first-cut with autumn winter growth herbage all as having (32%, 27%, 40%, 30% Over previous decade, 11%, 41% 37% claimed small, moderate improvement in quality, mainly earlier cutting ensiling better swards.