Practical Cost Control Series: Forage

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George Drewett (FCG WhiteAvon)

This is part of a series of articles featuring cost focus and control on our clients’ farms. At times of low commodities prices cost control is, of course, a really important area and should be seen as a cultural way to approach farming, rather than reacting to low prices by trying to slash costs.

On our farm in 2024 we carried out a trial to analyse in clamp maize losses by recording all maize coming onto our site at harvest which totalled 4,200t. We then weighed this out over the winter months and confirmed that the total loss was 6%. We use an additive and the product was clamped in one block, therefore there would be less surface area compared to a smaller pit. The dry matter of the maize was approximately 32% and it was ensiled in a sausage shaped pit measuring 25m wide.

Losses can be up to 15% if not ensiled properly, or if the product is a higher dry matter and additive isn’t used. As we approach the forage season with grass and maize silage, it is important to be mindful of the use of additive where necessary to minimise the loss rate.

Processing of the forage products to provide a steady supply to the pit to enable correct management of rolling and ensiling is really important. In this modern world, a number of contractors have large forage harvesters. It is important that this is balanced with the machinery used on the clamp. 

Following the drought of last summer, forage prices have increased significantly. It is therefore important to maximise yields where possible this year to reduce the cost per tonne. Although fuel and fertiliser prices are high, it is important to obtain a good seedbed with sufficient nutrients to enable the crop to achieve the best possible results. Weed control, especially in maize is also very important.

The most important thing to focus on as we establish maize is maintaining moisture within the soil. This can be achieved through rolling of the land between cultivation and through the use of strip till and direct drill methods. Strip till in the correct conditions can be a cost effective and very efficient system to establish maize and beet.

Organic manure is an important way of building organic matter, phosphate, potash and sulphur within the ground. If you are an arable farmer growing forage crops, it’s certainly worth working with your neighbouring livestock farmers where possible. The introduction of organic matter can also enable carbon sequestration and as a result financial incentives can be received through the carbon market.

If you would like to discuss how to reduce your forage costs further, please contact George Drewett at georgedrewett@fcgagric.comor your local FCG Office.

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