Bacterial inoculants containing lactic acid bacteria have been proven to consistently improve nutritional quality of forages, which helps to increase milk and meat production and provide a substantial return on investment. L actic acid bacteria are found naturally on forage crops and are responsible for preserving silage. However, there is no guarantee that an adequate number of the most efficient strains of these beneficial bacteria are present for proper fermentation. Using a silage inoculant insures an optimum level of highly effective lactic acid bacteria.
Bacterial inoculants are easy to apply and safe to handle and use.
M ost inoculants contain various strains of live lactic acid bacteria. Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus cerevisiae. Both organisms are efficient producers of lactic acid, the most important organic acid needed for a quick drop in pH. Low pH inhibits many undesirable bacteria, thereby preserving more forage nutrients. Once mixed, the inoculant mixture must be used within 36 hours to insure effectiveness. Dry inoculants are applied directly to forage at the blower or chopper.