The Mount Holly News

SUMMER SILAGE CROPS.

Provision Should Be Made to Tide Over Scant Pasture Period.

Dairy farmers who have not already made preparations for tiding cows over the period of insufficient pastures in late summer and fall should not forget that many cows went nearly dry last July and August, says a Pennsylvania Agricultural college bulletin. Such conditions may be avoided and incidentally the dairyman's bank account strengthened by a little forethought.

Maintaining the milk flow during the period of insufficient pasture may be accomplished by feeding additional grain, by feeding soiling crops and by feeding silage.

Feeding soiling crops in addition to the pasture secured by the cows helps to maintain the milk flow at moderate cost. The objection to this method is the labor and planning necessary in planting and cutting such crops at the proper time. Unless one has some silage from last year's feeding soiling crops offer the most feasible feeding plan for the coming summer.

The best, cheapest and most practical way to tide over short pastures is to have an ample supply of corn silage. Plan to have enough left over from winter feeding to take care of the short pasture period. This involves less labor than soiling crops, and the feed is handy and ready for use whenever needed.

The summer silo should be rather narrow in diameter so that the silage may be fed at the rate of three inches daily to prevent spoiling.

Begin now to plan for a corn acreage sufficient to insure silage for next summer's feeding. It will keep well with the exception of a small amount on top. Put up an extra silo if needed. In the meantime plant some soiling crops for use this summer.