This past year was certainly a tough one for stockmen producing hay. We were either too dry, too wet, or were getting the entire field eaten up by reoccurring waves of armyworms.
Deciding how often to cut and bale hay will always be a compromise between quality or quantity. Waiting longer between cuttings will certainly increase the volume of hay and that may give folks bragging rights. But bragging about volume, at the expense of quality, doesn’t put weight on calves.
Bottom line, controlling weeds should be of primary importance for improving your hay production. Weeds are thieves in your hay meadow and you should have the tools to stop them. First calibrate your sprayer so you know how much you are putting out on each acre. Secondly, be prepared with an herbicide plan.
There are more factors to consider. More will be shared next week as well as at an upcoming seminar. On Monday, Feb 18 a seminar to start gearing up for this year’s hay crop is set at the Angelina County Extension Office starting at 6:30 pm. 1 CEU towards pesticide licenses will be given. Cost is $10.