During the dry months,, silage is one of the most important ways to keep your animals well fed. But storing silage in high-moisture, airtight conditions can be tricky. With Gundle API’s Silex, you can rest easily, knowing your feed is protected.

Silage is made from green crops that are stored without oxygen until you’re ready to feed your livestock. This ensures a reliable supply of nutritious fodder throughout the year.

Why silage works

• Retains the energy and protein of the original crop.
• Animals love the natural aroma and taste.
• Farmers benefit from cost-effective, year-round feed security.

Silage undergoes a natural fermentation process during which plant sugars are converted into acids, lowering the pH and preventing spoilage. To keep this process on track, silage must be protected from excess moisture and oxygen.

Crops and storage

Common silage crops include maize, sorghum, lucerne and grasses. They’re stored in bunker silos, tower silos, silage bags or wrapped bales. In bunkers and bales, plastic coverings are essential, and that’s where Gundle API’s Silex comes in.

Why the right covers matter

• Silage covers block oxygen, stopping mould and harmful microorganisms.
• They conserve the correct level of moisture for proper fermentation.
• Without a good cover, farmers risk losing 20 to 30% of silage to spoilage, shrinkage or nutrient loss.
• Too much moisture can dilute nutrients, encourage bacteria and cause effluent runoff.

The role of Silex

Gundle API’s Silex creates an airtight seal that keeps oxygen out and prevents rain or condensation from seeping in. This keeps silage dry, nutrient-dense, and safe. A good cover also withstands UV exposure and harsh weather conditions, protecting your feed for months to come. By reducing spoilage, farmers save money and maximise the return on their forage crops.

Gundle API’s two Silex solutions

Gundle API offers two options, namely Silex Black and Silex Black/White. Both are made from blended low-density polyethylene (LDPE), are UV‑stabilised and resistant to tears and punctures.

Silex Black

• Heavy-duty sheeting for silage covers and general farm use.
• Absorbs sunlight, keeping silage warmer.
• Strong barrier with fewer visible tears.
• Long-lasting, suitable for year-round use.

Silex Black/White

• Wide-width sheeting designed to reflect sunlight.
• Keeps silage cooler, reducing heat damage.
• Easier to spot holes or damage.
• Ideal for hot climates or summer storage.

If you’re storing silage in hot or sunny conditions, Black/White Silex is the better choice. For general use, Black Silex remains the trusted standard. Either way, Gundle API’s Silex ensures your silage stays safe, nutritious, and ready when your animals need it most.

Visit the Gundle API website at www.gundleapi.co.za to learn about the products that Gundle API has to offer.