When looking at the time factor, the benefits of ammoniation are increased if it is done soon after harvesting. Forages which remain in the field undergo weathering, decreasing both the nutritive value of the forage and its response to ammoniation. When using ammonia as a preservative for high moisture hay, stack and treat the hay as quickly as possible, as heating will start occurring immediately. Only bale a volume of feed that can be stacked, covered and ammoniated in a-day. Temperature determines the speed at which the reaction between ammonia and the feedstuff occurs, as well as the extent of improved digestibility.
Higher temperatures result in faster reactions and a greater increase in digestibility.
When the temperature decreases, the length of time required to complete the reaction is increased and the increase in digestibility is not as marked. The per cent improvement in crude protein is dependent upon the amount of anhydrous ammonia applied to the forage . Changes in per cent crude protein following ammoniation with three per cent NH 3 by weight on a dry matter basis. This allows for determination of economic feasibility. The analysis after ammoniation is also essential in formulating balanced rations.