Producers recommend using the combination mower and conditioner to minimize trips across the field. But opinions vary on whether the sickle or disk type mower is better.
A cutting height of about 3 inches is recommended for "all-grass" hay. Alfalfa, clovers, and alfalfa or clover mixtures should be cut to 1- or 2-inch stubble, if it is possible and if retention of the legume in the stand is desired.
In addition, hay conditioners with rubber rollers for crushing or crimping are preferred. For most effective crimping, correct adjustment of the rollers' spacing is extremely important. Swath widths usually are laid wide for early season and heavy cuttings, and narrow for mid-summer and late season harvests.
The modernization of hay harvesting enables
a producer to harvest hay timely and at high quality.
