Effect of molasses on fermentation quality of wheat straw ensiled with perennial ryegrass

• DOI: 10.1071/an22047
• Publication Date: 2022-06-20T23:32:46Z
• Authors: Dong Dong; Guofeng Xu; Tongtong Dai; Cheng Zong; Xuejing Yin; Yuhong Bao; Tao Shao
• Keywords: Silage

Context Insufficient supply of silage has limited the development animal husbandry in Tibet, where natural pasture may not meet requirements. Although wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) straw could be a supplementary forage, it is difficult to ensile. Mixing perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne and adding molasses help facilitate successful ensilage. Aims The objectives were determine proper mixing ratios for silage, evaluate effects different levels on fermentation quality. Methods In Experiment 1, was ensiled without or mixed at 4:1, 3:2 2:3 (fresh-weight basis). Fermentation quality evaluated when laboratory silos opened after 7, 14, 30 60 days. 2, mixture (2:3) treated with 0%, 3%, 4% 5% basis) ensiled. determined Key results inclusion significantly (P < 0.05) increased lactic acid water-soluble carbohydrate contents acid:acetic ratio, decreased pH ammonia-nitrogen, acetic acid, butyric total volatile fatty acids. judged best, highest content lowest 0.05). addition dry matter contents, ammonia-nitrogen compared control. Trace amounts propionic acids observed all silages. similar among treatments added molasses. Conclusions Considering costs additives, 3% most suitable practical application ensiling an optimum ratio 2:3. Implications This work inform producers efficient utilisation making by demonstrating