This study documented once again that
ensiling alfalfa is difficult and unpredictable.
Adding 2% dextrose or Biomate® inoculant
alone or in combination had little influence on
the ensiling process but did improve fermentation
efficiency somewhat. The pre-ensiling
characteristics (i.e., dry matter (DM) and
water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) values,
buffering capacity, and epiphytic microflora)
at the different cuttings and stages of maturity
undoubtedly influenced the effectiveness of the
two additives. Apparently, alfalfa often has
too little WSC and too much buffering capacity
to produce adequately preserved silage,
especially when ensiled at a low DM content
(less than 30 to 34%).
