For good fermentation and to minimize seepage losses, the dry matter to ensile corn silage should be appropriate for the storage structure. Recommended guidelines are:
• horizontal silo—30 to 35% DM;
• conventional upright silo—32 to 37% DM;
• oxygen-limiting upright silo—40 to 45% DM; and
• bags—30 to 40% DM.
The silage should be allowed to ferment for two to four weeks before feeding. The particle size of the silage should be evaluated along with the dry matter content so proper packing can occur.
