Inoculation with Lactobacillus plantarum of Alfalfa, Corn, Sorghum, and Wheat Silages

Abstract

Alfalfa, corn, sorghum and wheat forages were harvested for ensiling. Effects of inoculation of the forages with L. plantarum (107/g silage) were studied in small experimental 55-kg drum silos. Control and treated silages were prepared; drums from each treatment were opened on days 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 33. Proximate analysis, pH, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, soluble carbohydrate, lactic acid and volatile fatty acid contents were measured. Total faculative anaerobic microflora, lactobacilli, lactic acid cocci, yeasts and mold populations were measured. Total facultative anaerobic microflora were increased in all silages by addition of L. plantarum and numbers of lactobacilli were increased in all but corn silage. Yeasts and molds were lower only in inoculated alfalfa and wheat silages. The effect of the inoculum was observed on chemical composition only for alfalfa and wheat silages. These treated silages had a lower pH, higher lactic acid content and greater recovery of dry matter, crude protein and detergent fiber (alfalfa) and N-free extract (wheat). Inoculation has an effect on microflora in all silages and a positive beneficial effect on nutrient recovery in alfalfa and wheat silages.