Compact grass to keep toxins at bay, say experts

Compacting even layers of grass no more than 15cm deep in the clamp will minimise mycotoxin contamination during storage, two Irish and UK experts have advised.

With peak silage-making season upon us, David Davies of Silage Solutions, a British silage consultancy, advises farmers to cut and ensile grass correctly to minimise the risk of aerobic deterioration, mould development and multiple mycotoxin contamination.

“Mow when the grass is dry. If your sward is open or there is a lot of dead material in the base of the grass — because of lodging or aftermath from last autumn perhaps — increase your cutting height to 7.5-10 cm.