Possibilities of using dried mulberry pulp as an additive in alfalfa silage

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effects of dried mulberry (Morus alba) pulp with high water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content on the nutrient substance composition, pH and silage acids of alfalfa silage. The alfalfa used in the study was harvested in the 10% flowering period and ensiled by mixing with dried mulberry pulp at different ratios (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5% and 15%). The alfalfa that was ensiled for three months was analyzed at the end of this period, and the values measured for the control and treatment groups were compared. As a result, it was determined that the addition of dried mulberry pulp at different ratios into alfalfa silage was effective on some properties of the silage. In the case of adding mulberry pulp at 5-7.5% into the silage, it was observed that the silage pH decreased, and the lactic acid ratio increased. This positive result shows that in alfalfa silage mulberry pulp may be used as an additive. Hence, it may be stated that it would be suitable to add 5-7.5% mulberry pulp to increase the quality in alfalfa silage.