Corn silage is a popular forage for ruminant animals because it is high in energy and digestibility. Maximizing profitability in corn silage production requires not only high yield, but also high quality. Proper management of silage is influenced by multiple factors including corn product selection, plant population, harvest timing, the height and length of cut, and storage. An analysis of silage should be done to determine dry matter content, as well as energy content, energy availability and protein content in order to properly formulate rations.

It is imperative to understand the principles of soil fertility to efficiently manage corn nutrients, and corn production, and environmental stewardship.