Preservation of moist hay with preservatives – results from 2011

In Switzerland, some farms are using chemical preservatives in order to preserve moist hay. Detailed knowledge of the DM-content as well as the correct dosage are important for the success. In a trial, the efficacy of the preservative Selko Heu was investigated with hay of two different dry matter contents and three different dosages. As negative control, variants without additives were tested. These negative controls were additionally tested with different forage densities. During a period of 30 days, temperature was continuously controlled. Before and after this period, the dry matter contents and different parameters were analysed. In both DM levels, the untreated hay heated strongly and at the end it was totally moldy. The different densities showed that the stronger the hay was pressed, the higher the heating and the spoilage was. In contrast to the negative control, with the addition of the preservative Selko Heu, the heating up and the deterioration of the hay spoilage could be partly or totally reduced. The correct dosage is important for the success.