3f819e4d_onal_Resources___Virginia_Tech__Summary
[Title] The Basics of Forage Testing [1] PDF (365 KB) [Date] May 1, 2009 [ID] 404-300 [Author(s)] Charles C. Stallings [Summary] 
In order to have an accurate forage test for ration formulation, it is important to have a representative sample. The method of sampling varies with forage type. Silages (corn or hay crop) can be sampled either at harvest or at feed out. There is a slight reduction in dry matter and increase in fi ber during storage, but it is possible to use the analysis of the fresh material to indicate the quality after ensiling. If sampling fresh material at harvest, it is best to take three to four handfuls from every third load or more and place them in a container with all samples from the same field. Keep it covered to prevent drying. After mixing the composite, a sub-sample can be taken for analysis (only a pint or 100 grams is needed).
Charles C. Stallings | Publications and Educational Resources | Virginia Tech
Summary