Influence of the maize variety and the stage of development on the aerobic stability

In the years 2008 and 2010, the two maize varieties Amadeo and LG 32.52 were harvested in the milk ripeness, in the early and late dough stage and ensiled in 700 l containers. After opening the container, samples were taken to determine the fermentation quality and the aerobic stability with temperature measurements. With increasing development stage of the two varieties, the ash contents and fiber fractions in the silages decreased while the starch increased. The sugar content was relatively low in both varieties and in all three stages of development. In the maize silage, harvested in the milk stage, a more intensive lactic acid fermentation took place in both varieties than it did in the early and late dough stage. Furthermore, this is where the highest dry matter losses were observed. Regarding the aerobic stability, both varieties were very similar. Despite the same management conditions, big differences between the two years could be made out. The environmental conditions therefore have a greater impact on the aerobic stability than the choice of the variety.