1) Harvest at the correct stage. Grasses such as orchardgrass and fescue should be harvested at the boot to early head stage.

While a visual appraisal to gauge hay quality can be informative, extension experts stress that there’s only one way to truly know the quality of hay — getting an accurate test. “Hay that looks ...

Moisture levels have a direct effect on hay quality. What I have found to be a consistent number in the literature is 20% moisture maximum. To be more specific: Small squares to be 20% or less ...

Hay that has been cut and then rained on can lose quality in four ways. These include: 1) leaching of soluble carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, 2) increased and prolonged plant respiration ...