That good-quality feed is essential for the well-being and performance of horses and ponies is something we can all agree on. But did you know that proper silo maintenance plays a crucial role in this as well? With our step-by-step plan, silo maintenance becomes easy, and you can effectively prevent mold growth in your silo.
Summers in the Netherlands are often accompanied by significant temperature fluctuations. When the silo is exposed to direct sunlight during the day, the temperature inside can rise sharply. As it cools down in the evening, condensation may form on the silo walls. This moisture runs downwards, causing the feed to clump together and creating conditions for mold growth.
Mold growth in the silo can lead to the formation of harmful substances. As a result, both the quality and palatability of the feed decrease significantly. Horses and ponies will eat less because the feed becomes less appetizing. In addition, moldy feed can cause colic or disrupt the intestinal flora of horses and ponies.
Proper maintenance of your feed silo is crucial for the quality of the feed and the health of your horse. With our step-by-step plan, maintenance becomes simple, and you can prevent mold growth in your silo.
The cap ensures proper ventilation, allowing fresh air to enter and warm or moist air to exit. This keeps the feed in the silo fresher. It is important that the cap is the correct size. When purchasing a vent cap, installation is included free of charge.
Some vent caps are equipped with a filter cloth inside. Be aware that this cloth also gets dirty and needs to be replaced regularly.
In a silo, the oldest feed, often with the most condensation remains inside the longest. That’s why it is best to always fill the silo completely and also empty it completely on a regular basis. If you notice that it’s not possible to empty the silo within three months on your farm, make sure not to order too much feed at once.
Use a flashlight to look inside the silo and check if any feed has stuck to the walls. If so, loosen the caked feed by tapping gently with a rubber hammer.
A silo can only be thoroughly cleaned with water. Pay special attention to the hopper, the auger pit, and the inspection hatch.
Our bulk truck driver can blow extra air through the silo before the new feed is delivered.
If desired, our bulk truck driver can apply a propshot disinfectant inside the silo. This treatment blows the disinfectant along the silo walls before new feed is loaded. Please note: the silo must be broom-clean; otherwise, the disinfectant will have no effect. Ask your specialist about the options, or contact our customer service at +31 (0)317 499 595.
Do you have a question or would you like advice about a Voermeesters product? Please feel free to contact us. Our customer service will be happy to help you