Effects of mixing ratio and additives on the mixed silage quality of chicory and hybrid elephant grass

To provide a theoretical basis for the production of high-quality silage, we investigated the effects of mixing ratios and additives on the mixed silage quality of chicory (Cichorium intybus) and hybrid elephant grass (Pennisetum americanum × P. purpureum) × P. purpureum. The ratios of hybrid elephant grass and chicory by weight were 0 ꞉ 10, 2 ꞉ 8, 4 ꞉ 6, 6 ꞉ 4, 8 ꞉ 2 and 10 ꞉ 0. There were three additive treatments for each mixed ratio: no-added, 5 mg·kg⁻¹ cellulase, and 5 mL·kg⁻¹ formic acid. The nutrient composition and fermentation quality of mixed silage were analyzed after 40 days. The mixed silage of hybrid elephant grass and chicory exhibited improved nutritional quality, and additives also benefited the fermentation traits and nutrient value. In summary, adding formic acid silage had a better effect than cellulase, and the silage effect of the 4 ꞉ 6 mixed ratio with formic acid was the best. To obtain excellent silage, the mixed storage ratio of hybrid elephant grass and chicory should be greater than 2 ꞉ 8 with formic acid.