Silage quality plays a critical role in the performance of dairy herds and a recent comparison between 2024 and 2025 highlights notable differences in feed value and potential impact on productivity.
Analysis from Fane Valley silage samples across Northern Ireland shows that 2025 silage is, on average, of higher quality than that produced in 2024, particularly in terms of energy, protein and dry matter content.
Table 1: Comparison of 2024 and 2025 Fane Valley Forage Samples for Northern Ireland
Energy Content
In 2024, prolonged wet spells and unpredictable harvesting windows led to delayed cutting for many farms. This resulted in more mature grass at harvest, contributing to lower energy levels and reduced digestibility.
Average Metabolisable Energy (ME) values in 2024 silage were around 10.6 MJ/kg Dry Matter (DM), whereas 2025 samples are showing improved levels closer to 11.0 MJ/kg DM. This increase is significant for dairy cows, as higher energy silage supports better milk yield and helps reduce the reliance on expensive concentrates in the diet.
On average the 0.5MJ increase in ME in 2025 first cut forages, based on a typical forage dry matter intake of 11kg DM, has the ability to support an extra 1 litre from forage compared to 2024 values. On a 100-cow herd this equates to a potential concentrate saving of over 1.5T per month. Through the correct feed allocation this saving should be utilised by your Nutritionist or Technical Sales Advisor.
Protein
Protein levels have also seen a marked improvement in 2025. Last year’s average crude protein content hovered around 13%, reflecting poorer-quality swards and delayed harvesting. In contrast, 2025 silage is averaging around 14.5% crude protein, largely due to more favourable growing and harvesting conditions, with timely first cuts taken during peak grass quality. This in turn will help reduce the need for additional protein requirement through purchased feed.
Dry Matter
Dry matter content, which influences intake, preservation and feed-out management, is also higher this year. Improved weather allowed for better wilting and drier silage with average dry matter content rising from 29% in 2024 to over 32.5% in 2025.
Drier silage is typically more palatable and encourages higher intakes, which is critical for high-performing dairy cows. Be aware that if silage DM is too high this can lead to reduced forage intakes and increased sorting of the total mixed ration (TMR). Addition of water may be required to counteract these issues. The aim for an overall TMR DM of 45% should be targeted by your feed advisor.
Forage Stocks
Another key factor for the coming winter is the increase in forage stocks. With more consistent weather during key cutting periods, many farms were able to take additional cuts or increase yields per acre. This boost in quantity, alongside quality, positions dairy farmers well for the coming winter, reducing pressure on bought-in feeds.
In summary, the improved silage quality in 2025 – characterised by higher energy, protein and dry matter, will likely translate into better cow performance, improved milk yields and greater overall efficiency in dairy herds across Northern Ireland.
To correctly utilise your forage, ensure you speak to your local Fane Valley Feeds Advisor or call 028 8224 3221
