May 2016 harvest timing

Coming off of an El Nino winter we are moving ahead of the long term average for heat unit accumulation.  Yes, we have had cold spells, but with very warm weather in between.  This adds to the growing degree day accumulation which predicts the maturity of the haylage.  Temperatures have consistently reached the upper 50 and lower 60’s; which is perfect for cool season forages.  First cutting haylage is normally the best legume/grass haylage of the season so it is important to get it right.  The right stage of harvest is much sooner than you think

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