Why choose Leafy Floury corn?

Introduction

Leafy and Leafy Floury corn varieties, which originated in North America, are prized for their imposing stature, the size and number of their leaves, and their ears. These characteristics are confirmed by test results, making them an attractive option for growers.

A selection for forage production

In France and Europe, these genetic lines, developed in Canada, are marketed exclusively by Semental. They are distinguished by:

• A height of up to 3.50 meters.
• Large ears of corn and white corn kernels.
• Improved digestibility due to the concentration of lignin in the lower part of the plant.
• A leaf area 30% larger than that of other corn varieties, with 9 to 10 leaves above the ear.

These varieties are owned by the Canadian company Glenn Seed and are bred for silage production.

Interesting agronomic characteristics

For planting, it is recommended to reduce the planting density to 75,000–80,000 plants per hectare. At this density, yields match or even exceed those of the leading market benchmarks. The benefits include:

• A dense, early-developing canopy that reduces evapotranspiration and limits weed growth.
• Reduced susceptibility to lodging thanks to the low placement of the awn, which lowers the center of gravity.

More easily digestible fiber and starch

Leafy Floury corn offers:

• An increase in the dNDF of approximately two to eight points.
• According to the University of Wisconsin, starch can be degraded by up to 93%.
• A lower starch content (29% compared to 35–36% for standard varieties).
• Higher NDF and dNDF levels, which improve rumination and milk production.

The grains, which are easier to crush, make the silage easier to digest and cause it to acidify more quickly.

Easier harvesting and storage

Leafy Floury corn varieties feature:

• A different grain structure, making them easier to crack.
• A higher sugar content, promoting faster and more intense acidification of the silo.
• A crop that should not be harvested for silage later than conventional hybrids.

Semental offers about ten varieties registered in France, covering all maturity groups.

A study conducted in Sourches

In 2001, a study conducted at the Sourches experimental farm (Sarthe) demonstrated:

• Improved fiber digestibility.
• The degradability of waxy starch is higher than that of conventional corn.
• Starch degradability is 15 to 20 points higher after eight hours in the rumen.

Conclusion

Leafy and Leafy Floury corn varieties offer significant advantages for forage production, particularly in terms of digestibility, yield, and ease of harvest. Adopting these varieties can improve herd productivity and health.