What is the protein average on corn silage?

Corn silage typically has a crude protein (CP) content ranging from 6% to 10%, with an average of approximately 8%. However, the protein content of corn silage can vary depending on several factors, including corn variety, growing conditions, harvesting time, and storage practices.

Early-harvested corn silage tends to have higher protein content compared to late-harvested silage. This is because immature corn plants contain higher levels of water-soluble proteins and lower levels of fiber. Additionally, good growing conditions, such as adequate moisture and nitrogen availability, can contribute to higher protein content in corn silage.

It is important to note that the protein average of corn silage can also be influenced by the presence of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) compounds, which are not directly utilizable by animals. These compounds can contribute to the total nitrogen content but are not digestible and do not provide essential amino acids.

To obtain an accurate representation of the protein content in corn silage, it is recommended to have it analyzed by a reputable laboratory using appropriate methods, such as the Kjeldahl method or near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). This will provide a reliable estimate of the protein available to the animals consuming the corn silage.