Valorization of whole plant silage of cereals, with or without leguminous plants, on the dairy farm with specific attention to rumen health

Declining soil quality and -resilience reduces forage yields and quality on dairy farms, especially in a changing climate. Increased crop diversification, e.g. by including cereals and leguminous plants in the crop rotation, can increase both yield stability and sustainability.
This requires a better knowledge of the applicability of whole plant silage in cereals and mixed crops with leguminous plants.
In this project, we want to investigate the value of whole plant silage in cereals, whether or not in combination with leguminous plants, on dairy farms. This way, we aim to maintain or improve organic soil carbon, reduce the use of pesticides and fertilisers and increase crop diversity. By incorporating whole plant silage in the dairy cattle ration, the project also strives for a better balance between high milk yields and animal health by reducing the occurrence of sub-clinical rumen acidosis. This optimisation will lead to improvement of the economic return of the dairy farms through lower cultivation, feed and cattle costs.