Variations in Initial Composition of Orchardgrass as Related to Silage Composition and Feeding Value

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Abstract
Eight lots of orchardgrass, Dactylis glomerata, representing a wide range in chemical composition were produced by adding or withholding N fertilizer. Fertilized grasses were higher in crude protein, lower in dry matter, N-free ex-tract, sugar and ratio of sugar to protein than the unfertilized grasses. Direct-cut silages from fertilized grasses were higher in pH, butyric acid and ammonia and lower in feeding value than unfertilized silages. Dry matter digestibility was not greatly different and lower dry matter intake by dairy cows was primarily responsible for lower feeding value. Correlations between forage composition and silage quality and multiple regression of dry matter consumption on silage quality measurements were measured. It was concluded that the need for special fermentation controls (preservatives) is related to fertilization practices and crop composition.