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Inoculation with Lactobacillus plantarum of Alfalfa, Corn, Sorghum, and Wheat Silages

Department of Animal Science, University of Georgia, Experiment 30212
Department of Food Science, University of Georgia, Experiment 30212

ABSTRACT

Alfalfa, corn, sorghum, and wheat forages were harvested for ensiling. Effects of inoculation of the forages with Lactobacillus plantarum (10⁷/g silage) were studied in small experimental 55-kg drum silos. Control and treated silages were prepared, and drums from each treatment were opened on days 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 33. Proximate analysis, pH, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, soluble carbohydrate, lactic acid, and volatile fatty acid contents were measured. Total faculative anaerobic microflora were increased in all silages by addition of L. plantarum, and numbers of lactobacilli, were increased in all but corn silage. Yeasts and molds were lower only in inoculated alfalfa and wheat silages. The effect of the inoculum was observed on chemical composition only for alfalfa and wheat silages. These treated silages had a lower pH, higher lactic acid content, and great recovery of dry matter, crude protein, and detergent fiber (alfalfa) and nitrogen-free extract (wheat). Inoculation has an effect on microflora in all silages and a positive beneficial effect on nutrient recovery in alfalfa and wheat silages.

¹ Department of Animal Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80521.

² Watkins Inc., Wenona, MN 55987.

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