Density and Storage
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Feed density and storage are crucial for dairy farming. The page provides details on the density and dry matter percentages of silage and hay, from direct cut grass to maize varieties. It's essential to note the varying storage requirements for different silages, such as maize or grass. Furthermore, the page offers insights into the density and storage recommendations for other feeds, including grains and specific vegetables. Ensure you consider these factors to optimise your storage solutions and make the most of your feed resources.
This page contains information about the density and storage of feeds. Download or order the Facts and Figures guide to find out more.
Density and DM% of silage and hay
| Silage types | DM% | Wet weight silage kg/m³ in stack or hay in bale |
DM silage kg/m³ in stack/bale |
Density in wagon kg/m³ in stack |
| Direct cut grass | 13-18 | 700-900 | 120-160 | - |
| Wilted grass | 20-30 | 600-800 | 160-180 | - |
| Baleage | 35-40 | 500 | 130-180 | - |
| Hay - small bales | 85 | 18-25 | 15-20 | - |
| Hay - round bales | 85 | 180-300 | 150-250 | - |
| Maize stack | 33-38 | 500-760 | 170-250(average 200) | 80-120 |
| Maize bunker | 33-38 | 600-820 | 200-270(average 220) | 80-120 |
| Maize deep bunker (not common 5% of bunkers) |
33-38 | 760-900 | 250-300 | 80-120 |
Storage space required for grass and maize silage
| Silage storage | Tonnes DM multiplied by: | Example |
| Maize stack | 5.0 | e.g. 50 t DM x 5.0 = 250m³ |
| Maize bunker | 4.4 | e.g. 50 t DM x 4.4 = 222m³ |
| Grass silage | 5.7 | e.g. 50 t DM x 5.7 = 285m³ |
Density and storage of other feeds
| Density (kg/m³) | Storage (m³/tonne) | |
| Grains - barley | 630 | 1.6 |
| Grains - wheat | 760 | 1.3 |
| PKE | 630-750 | 1.35-1.6 |
| Carrots | 630 | 1.6 |
| Onions (dry) | 630-725 | 1.4-1.6 |
| Potatoes | 660 | 1.5 |