Silage Trial in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

Here, Gavin Thomson, Pannar's representative in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, is busy planting one of his maize silage trials near Mooi River. Good quality maize silage forms an integral part of feedlots, dairies and other intensive livestock production systems in South Africa. Pannar offers a complete package of maize silage hybrids that meet all the requirements of these systems.

The maize hybrids in the medium-early growing season (5-series) usually make up the bulk of silage plantings due to their consistent and reliable yield performance. Ultra early (3 series) and early (4 series) hybrids can complement the medium early package (5 series).

The primary advantage of these quicker maturing hybrids (varying from 100 to 130 days from emergence to cutting) is the earlier establishment of subsequent crops such as ryegrass, winter cereals and wheat. In regions with sufficient heat units, two silage crops can be harvested in a single season under irrigation using ultra early hybrids.

Medium hybrids are also suitable for silage production and depending on the area’s heat units, are ready for cutting approximately 110 to 145 days after emergence. This growth class generally offers good disease tolerance and an extended cutting window of 10 to 15 days. A plant population 20% higher than what would normally be used for grain, is recommended for silage production.

The yellow hybrid, PAN 5A-182 and white hybrid, PAN 5285 are the go-to hybrids in the medium early class. These hybrids are well adapted country-wide and have a strong track record of consistent top performance for silage. The PAN 4A-111 platform is an excellent choice for the cool humid regions, pairing bulk with quality. PAN 4A-156 is a good choice as a quick silage hybrid, particularly in KZN, where its good overall disease tolerance and robust plant type make it a winner.

Please consult your local Pannar representative for the best-adapted hybrids for your production region.