Harvesting forage during a wet spring is tricky, but good timing helps maintain feed quality. Grasses should be cut at the boot stage, while legumes are best at late bud to early bloom.
Mixed stands should follow grass timing, as grasses mature faster. Delaying harvest even by 10 days lowers nutrition, with protein dropping from 18% to 12%.
To get the best drying time, mow mid-morning after the dew dries. Cut forage at 3 to 4 inches high to promote regrowth and drying. Use mower conditioners to crimp stems every few inches and spread the swath wide.
Tedding or raking is ideal at 40% moisture to avoid leaf loss. Be careful not to drag soil into the forage—soil causes spoilage.
Proper baling moisture matters too. Dry hay should be baled at 15–20% moisture, depending on bale type. Baleage needs 45–65% moisture and at least six layers of plastic wrap. Haylage should be chopped at 60–70% moisture for proper fermentation.
Storage also affects quality. Fix holes in plastic wrap quickly, especially during the first month. Store dry hay indoors or on well-drained ground. Avoid stacking bales too close or near trees. Outdoor storage can lose up to 25% of the feeding value.
Lastly, think about safety. Wet hay can catch fire. Take time to check moisture levels and storage to protect your harvest. A few lost bales are better than losing your barn. Work smart, stay safe, and keep your farm strong.