PRODUCTIVITY AND QUALITY OF MAIZE HYBRIDS FOR SILAGE

A.C. Matei, Bianca-Maria Mădescu, Andra Sabina Neculai-Văleanu, V. Vintilă, M. Amarandei, Şt. Creangă

Abstract
   The objective of this research was to identify the potential of some maize hybrids for silage production. The DKC5542, MIKADO, Fundulea376 and P0725 (Pioneer) hybrids were cultivated, the productivity per hectare and chemical composition of each hybrid being accordingly recorded.
   There were no statistical significant differences between the tested hybrids, the average dry matter production being 13,32 t per hectare. Regarding the chemical characteristics, a higher percentage of DM was observed at Fundulea376 hybrid, 42% as compared to 39.8%, 37.10% respectively 34.70% recorded in the other hybrids. The average value for CP was 6.29%, the NDF content of the silo ranged between 45.60 and 49.05%, while the ADF content ranged from 16.80 to 21.2%. In light of these results, it may be concluded that the hybrids taken into study are recommended for use in silage.

Key words: Dry matter, Hybrids, Silage