Anhydrous ammonia is basic in nature and immediately after application will elevate the pH of corn silage. Afterwards the pH slowly declines via normal fermentation but fermentation will not be as extensive as untreated corn silage. Because of a less extensive fermentation some research has demonstrated a higher DM loss associated with adding anhydrous ammonia to corn silage. Anhydrous ammonia however has excellent anti-fungal properties and can effectively reduce yeast and mold populations within the silage. As a result, anhydrous treated corn silage often has better bunklife and reduced DM loss at feedout.
Anhydrous ammonia causes severe burns when it comes in contact with skin.
Operators should wear protective clothing to insure that anhydrous ammonia does not come in direct contact with skin. There should always be a clean supply of water readily available for flushing off and cleaning accidentally exposed skin. Precautions should be taken to protect against exposing skin to anhydrous ammonia when assembling equipment and applying product. Return to Top of Page Return to Top of Page Focus on Forage is a forage crop information resource of the University of Wisconsin.