Hay Production Guide
A guide to producing hay from field selection through storage, for farmers who want to make quality hay for their own use or sale. Work through the steps in order, and keep notes on what you decide for future reference.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideForages, Pasture & GrazingFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Choose species and fertility plan
- Plan cutting timing
- Check weather forecasts
- Cut and condition the forage
- Rake and ted per conditions
- Bale at proper moisture
- Store and cover bales
- Sample hay for analysis
How to use this guide
Follow the steps in order and write down any changes you make. Where your equipment or product has instructions, those come first.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA NRCS.
For more in this area, see the Ranch Beef Cattle. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Hay Bale Fail, and farming farm stories.