Our generous neighbours let us cut their field to make silage for winter feed. Although I cannot cut or bale the grass or wrap the bales [massive thanks to Myles!!], I helped by ‘waffling’ the cut grass. I especially enjoyed driving the ‘135’ tractor, which is three years older than I am.
Although the sun came out briefly for the photographs, it was rainy and very windy most of the time—but I did not mind at all.
Why Turn Silage Grass before baling?
- Removes moisture: Freshly cut grass is often around 70-80% moisture, which is too wet and can cause bad fermentation or foul odors.
- Concentrates sugars: Wilting for 24 to 36 hours concentrates plant sugars needed for lactic acid bacteria to preserve the feed.
- Improves density: Drier, lighter material allows the baler to pack tighter, squeezing out trapped oxygen
