This announcement follows the successful completion of the farm’s first trial in cultivating yellow corn, which was harvested today. The crop was planted on 3 September over an area of 12.5 hectares with the goal of producing organic silage feed. This initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to ensure clean organic food as part of a broader sustainable strategy.
He explained that agricultural researchers at Al Mleiha Farm are working on enhancing the cultivation of both green and dry forage crops to produce sufficient organic feed for the farm's dairy cows while improving soil quality and fertility.
After reaching the optimal growth stage, the corn was harvested using specialized equipment that cuts the entire plant into small pieces. The processed corn was then transported to the dairy farm, where it is completely covered with plastic materials to prevent exposure to air. This ensures the fermentation process is completed, converting the crop into silage.
The fermentation period takes approximately two to three months, resulting in organic corn silage. This ensures that all feed inputs for the dairy cows at Mleiha Farm are organic, aligning with the farm's sustainability goals.
Dr. Al Tunaiji highlighted that silage preserves the nutritional content of the feed without the losses typically associated with dried fodder. It is also more palatable for cows as it closely resembles green fodder. Silage contains about 8–9% protein by total weight and serves as a vital energy source for cows due to the fermentation of starch and sugar in the corn kernels, which constitute 40% of the silage weight.
This innovative approach strengthens the farm's commitment to sustainability while supporting Sharjah's position as a leader in agricultural and environmental innovation.
For an optimal experience, please
