What are we testing?

At Legend Seeds we offer three types of silage products. During the last three years, all three groups have been tested across seven states. There were 15 locations in 2016 and 19 locations in 2017. An agronomic summary of each product type is provided below:

Leafy & Floury Silage Specific Products (RR or Conv.) – Introduced by Legend in 2014

• Called the Legend Next Generation (LNG) hybrids, feature both the Leafy and Floury genes.
• Approximately 25% of the kernels on each ear have completely floury kernels, these are softer and more digestible
• The best feed: 10-12% more starch digestibility than a dual-purpose hybrid.
• Plant at 28-30,000 maximum population to improve digestibility and tonnage.
• Leafy silage products have 70% more leaf area above the ear per plant than a dual-purpose grain hybrid, leading to improved digestibility.
• Quick ensiling period that fits well into the cow-calf operation and dairy operation, 30 days.

Leafy Silage Products (GENSSRIB or Conv.) – Introduced by Legend in 2015

• A 5-7% improved starch digestibility over a dual-purpose hybrid.
• Leafy silage products have 70% more leaf area above the ear per plant than a dual-purpose grain hybrid.
• Quick ensiling period that fits well into the cow-calf operation, 30 days.
• Slower dry down period, more flexibility at harvest time.

Dual-Purpose Products (All trait packages available)

• A flexible option that has “dual” purpose – grain or silage.
• Features the most options for trait packages, good for a corn on corn situation.
• Utilize a higher population range, 34–36,000.
• A tall and broad plant with good tonnage, but less leaves above the ear compared to the silage specific varieties.

How do I read the research results?

Each nutritionist, dairyman, and cattleman have their own preferred method of comparing silage. Attached are two years of data in two maturity groups: 85-100 day and 95-108. We’ve done our best to provide you with as much information as possible in the research results. Each chart shows an average of how the hybrid performed at all of the locations where it was tested during that planting year. You’ll find milk per acre, milk per ton, and dry matter yields included and compared in the charts.

To download and print the full report, click here. If you have questions please reach out to one of our agronomists. Silage cutting season will be around the corner before we know it and our team is here to help. Evaluating this year’s silage crop sets the foundation for the next year!