Tag: hay
What does it really mean to ‘use nitrogen strategically’
Nitrogen is a major driver of grass growth, but timing is everything. Learn how to strategically apply fertilizer to maximize pasture productivity, determine the right application rates for your forage and avoid applying nitrogen when plants can't efficiently use it.
What you can do to revive worn-out hay stands
Weather patterns left Ohio’s 2026 first-cutting grass hay short and low-yielding. If your long-term hay fields are struggling, OSU's Garth Ruff discusses how managing soil fertility, planning a late-summer reseeding or even transitioning the land to grazing can help maximize your returns.
Hemp dogbane vs. milkweed: ID and control for livestock safety
Hemp dogbane and milkweed look alike, and both are toxic to livestock. Ohio State University Extension’s Christine Gelley explains how to tell them apart, why they are dangerous in hay systems and the most effective mowing and herbicide strategies to keep your pastures safe and productive.
Tips for making high-quality baleage
To maximize baleage quality, aim for 45-55% moisture and wrap within two hours. Ohio State University Extension expert Jason Hartschuh shares tips on increasing bale density and new research on "sweet hay" preservation to help farmers manage harvest windows and improve forage bunk life.
Are you ready for hay season? 5 essentials for a successful...
Ohio State University Extension’s Jordan Penrose shares 5 essentials for mastering hay season: Optimize timing, maintain stand longevity, prep equipment, stay flexible with baleage and utilize forage testing.
How to repair mud and hay feeding damage after winter feeding
Did you know the waste area from feeding 1 hay bale can breed 1 million stable flies? Learn "mud math" and expert steps from Ohio State University Extension's John Yost on how to restore damaged pastures and boost forage quality.
Year-end reflection for forage managers: pastures, hay quality & lessons learned
Reflect on pasture performance, hay quality, winter readiness, and farm stress after a challenging year for Ohio forage managers. Learn lessons to plan ahead.
Pastures suffer as Ohio, Pa. see second year of drought
Back-to-back droughts in summer and a wet spring have left pastures struggling to grow, leading many farmers to dip into their hay supplies early.
Factors to consider when pricing hay
Setting hay prices isn’t just about the market—it’s about knowing your true costs. Factor in nutrients, supplies, labor and storage before selling forage.
Spotty rains lead to spotty hay quality in eastern Ohio
Hay loses quality and nutrients during curing; forage analysis helps farmers manage unpredictable losses and improve feed value for livestock.
