Traditionally, The Farmer begins cutting hay in May, when plants have the fewest seed heads and leaves contain the most nutrients. After the hay begins to seed, the nutrients leave the leaves and go up into the seed. The early cuttings in May produce quality hay.
Unfortunately, hay season is off to a slow start this year. The combination of late snowstorms into April, the cool (downright cold) days of spring, and then the drought conditions that are still lingering through this month have stalled the growth of spring grasses.
The Farmer was able to put up a few bales, but we are in need of a lot more before hay season ends.
“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds. Thy hay appereth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.”
Proverbs 27:23 & 25
