Check for black layer development by splitting kernels lengthwise to locate the black layer at the tip of the kernel. Another measure of optimum maturity is the location of the milk line and the degree of indentation of the kernels. The milk line is the point where the liquid and solid portions of the kernel meet. It appears when the kernels have dented in their crown portion. Cut the kernel lengthwise to determine the milk line location.
Harvesting earlier can result in decreased yields and seepage losses.
Later harvests result in dropped ears, stalk breakage, and leaf loss which reduces yield. More important is that over mature and drier corn is more difficult to conserve as silage because of entrapped air and lower lactic acid production. Moisture is perhaps the most important factor in ensuring good fermentation and packing during the ensiling process. Once we've defined the optimum maturity, moisture content, and length of cut for corn silage, we need to take every precaution possible to achieve a desirable fermentation to preserve the corn silage. Rapid filling, 2.