Alternative processes for improving nutritive value of maize stover

Abstract

Research aimed at improving the feeding value of maize stover for growing cattle is described. For various reasons, ensiling is considered preferable to dry harvesting. Sodium hydroxide treatments are discussed, and the rather disappointing in vivo results noted. Two wet processing systems are compared: ammoniation, and steam pressure treatment. An alternative is the grinding of dry harvested stover. Increased energy and fertiliser costs will make such treatments to utilise crop residues as feeds more economical.