Timing And Moisture Levels Key to Better Forage Harvests
Harvesting high-quality forage during wet conditions can be difficult, but timing is crucial. Grasses should be cut at the boot stage and legumes at late bud to early bloom. In mixed stands, timing should follow the faster-maturing grass to prevent nutrient loss.
Delays of even 10 days can lower total digestible nutrients and protein significantly.
Mowing should begin mid-morning after dew dries to allow more drying time. A cutting height of 3–4 inches promotes regrowth and airflow.
Mower conditioners should crimp stems every 3 to 4 inches, and swaths should be wide—at least 70% of the mower’s width. Tedding or raking should occur when forage is around 40% moisture to reduce leaf loss.
To avoid fermentation issues in baleage, limit soil contamination by using light rake pressure and testing for ash if needed.
Moisture at baling also affects quality. Dry hay should be baled at 15–20% moisture. Baleage requires 45–65% moisture and at least six layers of plastic wrap.
Haylage should be chopped at 60–70% moisture and stored in silos or bags. These ranges help prevent clostridial fermentation and spoilage.
Storage conditions play a vital role. Holes in plastic wrapping must be sealed quickly, especially in the first month. Dry hay stored above 20% moisture indoors should be monitored.
Outdoor bales lose the most—up to 25% in feeding value—due to weather exposure. Store bales on dry ground, spaced apart, and under cover if possible.
Lastly, safety matters. Wet hay can cause fires through spontaneous combustion. Always prioritize safety over saving a few bales. Monitor weather, use proper methods, and protect your farm operation.