Growing TMF corn silage
1. Optimize growing conditions
- TMF hybrids grow best on fertile, well-drained soils in corn/alternate crop rotations under conventional tillage systems
- TMF hybrids also perform well in continuous corn rotations under reduced tillage
- In either situation, TMF corn hybrids respond to adequate applications of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium
2. Consider plant populations
Ideal populations vary by geography and field. Consult your local Mycogen Seeds representative for local guidelines
TMF hybrids grow best at populations of 30,000 to 32,000 plants per acre on highly fertile soils with abundant rainfall or irrigation
Many TMF corn hybrids can be grown at higher populations and under narrow-row environments
Dryland populations should be 10 percent to 15 percent lower
If grain corn seeding rates are lower than 26,000 plants per acre, plant TMF hybrids at the same reduced rate
Harvesting and storing TMF corn silage
- Silage harvested too early has less dry matter and is prone to leakage
- Silage harvested too late has less dry matter and may be prone to mold and heat damage due to poor packing
- To ensure proper TMF fermentation and performance, follow these guidelines for your type of storage structure:
2. Chop at correct length
- When chopped at the proper moisture level, use a cut length of ⅜ to ¾ inch
- If you are harvesting silage late, chop more finely and make sure to fill units rapidly and pack silage well to prevent oxygen exposure
- Note that the high tonnage of Silage-Specific™ TMF corn hybrids may require a slower chopping rate