Method for Long-term Preservation of Green Succulent Fodder

Correct Answer: Silage

Silage is the method for long-term preservation of green succulent fodder. The process (called ensiling) involves packing green fodder into a silo/pit under anaerobic conditions, where lactic acid bacteria ferment soluble carbohydrates to produce lactic acid, lowering pH and preserving the material.

Silage Making Key Points

• Best crop: Maize (Zea mays) — rich in soluble carbohydrates
• Crops with low sugar can be ensiled by adding 3–3.5% molasses
• Pit silos are most common in India
• Harvest time: Between flowering and milk stage
• Grass:Legume ratio for silage = 3:1

Advantages of Silage Over Hay

• Nutritive value of silage > hay
• Losses during conservation are lower in silage than in hay-making
• Vitamin A content is better preserved in silage