Tag: moisture

How to use hay sampling to improve your supplement results

How to use hay sampling to improve your supplement resultsThough the weather may not feel like it,  temps are still in the 100s with no end in sight here, the fall season is almost upon us. The soon-to-be-changing weather reminds us of the changing season. Along with a new season comes a further need for supplementation for your pasture cattle. But did you know there is a way to use hay to improve your efficiency?

During this time of year, many producers are hauling hay to their storage lots to use for winter. On top of this, they are also pricing and buying any additional hay that they may need. It seems everyone has it figured out though they may not be aware of problems lying just below the surface.

A significant problem for producers is that there is an extensive range in hay quality depending on many conditions. Things like the level of maturity, fertilization, growing conditions, harvest conditions, and storage methods all play a part. Accurately sampling and testing hay is the only way to get an accurate understanding of the nutritional value of your hay.

The nutritional value is not really something you want to guess at. Using values from previous years or a “book value” can be costly since a producer may incorrectly develop a ration using values that aren’t even present. Here are some tips to follow in order to get an accurate hay sampling.

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Actually create a spectacular hay bale in 4 easy steps

Actually create a spectacular hay bale in 4 easy stepsLooking out onto a field of perfectly rolled hay bales is a beautiful sight to see. It is even more impactful if you are the one that baled them. You can feel yourself filled with pride in a job well done.

When it comes to making the perfect hay bale, there are many steps to take care of. Things like being at the proper moisture content, the maturity of the forages, and the settings on the machines you will be using all play a part in how your hay bales will turn out.

But how can you get all the factors to mesh together to produce your desired result? Well, today, I will go over the four main steps you can use to make the perfect hay bale.

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4 steps to creating the perfect hay bale

4 steps to creating the perfect hay baleLooking out onto a field of perfectly rolled hay bales is a beautiful sight to see. It is even more impactful if you are the one that baled them. Can feel yourself filling with pride on a job well done.

When it comes to making the perfect hay bale there are many steps to take care of. Things like being at the right moisture content, the maturity of the forages, and the settings on the machines that you will be using all play a part in how your hay bales will turn out.

But how can you get all of the factors to mesh together to produce your desired result? Well, today I will go over the 4 main steps that you can use to make the perfect bale of hay.

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