Timing: The sooner the better. It is important to try and wrap the bale immediately and no later than 24 hours after baled. Heat serves as a loss of energy, so the quicker the bale is wrapped, the quicker it uses up the oxygen.

Wraps: Dr. Undersander recommends wrapping with a minimum of six layers of plastic and he mentions most professional wrappers usually use more. Even very good plastic can stretch and allow oxygen in so the more layers, the better chance to keep the bale preserved.

Film: Undersander recommends buying film from a dealer who sells balers or machinery. He says the key rule of thumb is that cheap plastic – is not good plastic. You will get what you pay for. It is important to purchase plastic film with UV inhibitors.

Storage: Run rows north to south to avoid concentration UV degradation on one side. Put in high areas that will be accessible when it comes time to feed the baleage. Avoid areas with: trees, poorly drained soil, or a large population of rodents.

Best Practices provided by Dr. Dan Undersander.

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