Testing Baleage

[kilroy60]

For those that have and use baleage in you operation, when, or do you, test the baleage? I'm guessing when you start to feed to the cows but am concerned if the results were to come back as a low quality feed. This is our first year trying baleage and have wrapped about 150 rolls.

 

[BC]

Random sample 3 or 4 bales up and down the stack. Use a hay probe and duct tape the holes

 

[Silver]

Never sampled it. Seems like if it's good feed going into the bag it's good coming out. I really should test though, just for peace of mind if nothing else.

 

[kilroy60]

Random sample 3 or 4 bales up and down the stack. Use a hay probe and duct tape the holes

OK, thanks. Do I wait the time required before the baleage is ready (6 - 8 weeks) or after the bales are wrapped?

 

[Jeanne - Simme Valley]

IMO - you should wait for the cure time. Be sure to random sample with a deep core probe.

 

[kilroy60]

Thanks Jeanne. Thought that would be the way to do it but wanted to make sure.

 

[BC]

IMO - you should wait for the cure time. Be sure to random sample with a deep core probe.

llet it cure

 

[Jeanne - Simme Valley]

I mostly test mine by feeding it and checking their manure. But, I do have a probe and test every few years.