Using Forage Maize

Forage maize is maize bred for intense forage productions. Whole plant digestibility and total energy are the main criteria for the breeders.
 
Energy from maize.
 
Maize produces energy as sugars (carbohydrates) manufactured by the plant as it grows and matures.
 
There are three main types of carbohydrates:
 
• Soluble sugar found in the plants cell
 
• Structural sugars which hold the plant cell and fibres together
 
• Starch produced in the cob as the kernel matures
 
All of these are an important source of energy and contribute to the total energy yield obtained from maize.