Effects of Harvesting Height and Processing Methods on Silage Quality and Cellulose Degradation Characteristics of Cenchrus fungigraminus

As a high-yield and fast-growing novel forage, Juncao (Cenchrus fungigraminus) holds significant potential for feed applications. Appropriate processing methods can effectively enhance the feeding efficacy of Juncao silage and reduce feed costs for farmers and herdsmen. In this study, Juncao at three different heights (1.0–1.5 m, 1.5–2.0 m, and 2.0–2.5 m) was selected for silage fermentation to determine the optimal harvesting height. Additionally, Juncao at a height of 2.5–3.0 m, which possesses the highest cellulose content, was selected for cellulose degradation analysis to evaluate the degradation efficiency of conventional silage additives on fiber content.The results indicated that the fiber content of Juncao silage was significantly positively correlated with growth height, whereas crude protein and crude fat contents showed a significant negative correlation. Furthermore, the total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) and lactic acid contents reached their peak in the 2.0–2.5 m (High) group. Cellulose degradation analysis revealed that the degradation rates of various cellulose components were higher under natural fermentation conditions compared to treatments with silage additives. However, further research is required to explore whether specific additives tailored for Juncao silage exist. Based on this experimental analysis, it can be concluded that utilizing 2.0–2.5 m Juncao for natural fermentation during the ensiling process can effectively improve nutritional composition and fermentation quality while achieving a higher cellulose degradation rate. Nonetheless, subsequent studies are necessary to refine and establish a complete and scientific methodology for Juncao silage production.