The country’s maize area increased by 54% this year to just over 17,300ha. This increase was in part due to the late spring driving acres away from cereal crops and the anticipated fodder supply issues that were emerging.

The heat and dry weather during the summer suited this crop. Maize is better able to utilise heat and sunshine and this stood to the crop despite the conditions which appeared too hot for many other crops. Some crops did suffer though on soils and soil types that could not deliver adequate moisture to support this rapid growth.

Crops are generally in excellent condition and are on track for an early harvest.

Output

This year’s maize crop is expected to produce around 330,000t of forage at 30% to 35% dry matter. This level of output could mean an additional 140,000t of maize silage this year, compared with last, to help fill part of the fodder deficit.

Maize silage has a feeding value equivalent to 70% to 72% DMD grass silage.