It’s also the time when smart feed planning can make a big difference – both for the current season and the one ahead. For many farms, maize silage sits at the centre of that planning because it delivers reliability, consistency, and value when grass alone can’t keep up.
When to feed maize silage
Timing matters. Autumn is where maize silage often delivers the best return. Feeding maize during this period helps maintain milk flow, supports BCS, and builds the pasture cover needed for winter and early spring. Even in seasons where grass growth is adequate, autumn supplementation can pay off by strengthening the whole system heading into calving.
Why maize silage stands out
Cost is front of mind for farmers, and maize silage remains one of the most cost-effective feeds available with the biggest savings coming from crops grown on effluent paddocks. These paddocks have high nutrient levels, reducing fertiliser needs and making maize silage the lowest cost dry matter on many farms. Brought in maize silage is typically more expensive but offers price certainty and fixed volumes, shifting environmental risk to the grower if yields fall short. A balanced approach – growing some maize silage on-farm while buying in additional supply – can help manage cost and risk effectively.
Maximise value by reducing wastage
Improving utilisation is another simple way to boost returns. Well-covered stacks, clean faces, firm compaction, and smart feed-out practices such as laying feed behind a wire to reduce trampling or feeding out on a pad all help ensure more of each kilogram ends up eaten. Better utilisation means better cost control and improved production.
Plan ahead for next season
Farmers considering growing maize silage should assess the full picture, including available paddocks nutrient balance and potential pasture forgone. For those planning to buy in maize silage in autumn 2027, start discussions with a contract grower, local contractor or a Pioneer Area Manager in the next couple of months. Locking in volume early may provide cost certainty and secure supply ahead of rising demand.
Bottom line
Autumn is a season of transition, and decisions made in the coming weeks shape the months ahead. Maize silage offers farmers a dependable tool for bridging feed gaps, supporting cow performance, and keeping feed costs under control. Whether you grow it, secure supply early or fine tune feeding, a clear feed plan now sets your farm up for a productive winter, spring and beyond.
Contact your local Farm Source TSR or your Pioneer Area Manager for more information.
Article supplied by Pioneer
