This study evaluated silages made with varying proportions of viticulture by-products (VC) and starch extraction from cassava (CSE). It attempted to determine the effects of these proportions on the microbial population, fermentative losses, and chemical composition. The treatments were specified as the proportions of VC in the silage (0 g/kg, 250 g/kg, 500 g/kg, 750 g/kg, and 1000 g/kg). Silages were evaluated before (0) and after 1, 3, 7, 15, 30, and 60 days of ensiling. The experimental design was completely randomized with five treatments, six storage times and four replications. The increased level of VC in the silage enhanced its dry matter content, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and buffering capacity, and reduced organic matter content. Fifteen days after ensiling, additional VC increased the concentration of soluble carbohydrates. The increased level of VC decreased the count of Clostridium spp. and lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The incidence of yeasts and enterobacteria was low in all treatments at all time points. Over time, losses as effluent and gases increased. Use of increasing proportions from VC in silage made with CSE increased the contents of dry matter and soluble carbohydrates and reduced the fermentative losses of the silage. The increased amount of VC also favoured pH reduction and reduced the proliferation of undesirable yeasts, while increasing the population of LAB.
"Experientia docet" - Experience is the best teacher