Hay quality has a direct impact on livestock performance and feeding costs, yet many producers lose value long before hay reaches the feeder, says University of Missouri Extension field agronomist Rudra Baral.
The good news: Most quality losses are tied to management decisions that producers can control. “Small changes in harvest timing, handling and storage can pay off in better animal performance and lower supplement costs,” says Baral.
Harvest timing still the biggest driver
The most important decision affecting hay quality is when you cut. As forage matures, fiber levels increase while digestibility and crude protein drop. “Delaying harvest may increase tonnage, but it almost always lowers feeding value per bale,” he says.
Best harvest windows
- Cool-season grasses: boot stage to early heading.
- Legumes: late bud to early bloom.
In Missouri, aiming for a first cutting by May generally supports higher-quality forage. But watch plant growth stages rather than the calendar, especially during warm springs when maturity advances quickly, says Baral.
Moisture management protects feed value
Baling hay at the right moisture prevents mold, heating and leaf loss.
Target moisture levels
- Small square bales: under 20%.
- Round bales: 15–18%.
- Large square bales: under 16%.
Hay that’s too wet can heat in storage, reducing nutrients and increasing fire risk. Hay that’s too dry becomes brittle, causing leaf loss, robbing hay of the most nutrient-dense part of the plant. Measure moisture with a meter and take multiple readings to avoid expensive mistakes.
Source : missouri.edu