Alfalfa Hay: Proper Handling & Storage to Increase Yield

Alfalfa hay, a significant source of nutrition for livestock, including cattle, horses, and goats, is prized for its rich nutrient content. Proper storage and handling techniques are key to unlocking its full potential, ensuring longevity, and maximizing its benefits in livestock diets.

Best Practices for Alfalfa Hay Storage and Handling

As a highly nutritious forage crop, alfalfa hay for cows holds great value in feeding livestock such as cattle, horses, and goats. Implementing precise storage and handling strategies is critical to extend its shelf life and enhance its nutritional impact, making it an indispensable part of effective livestock management.

Some key considerations for efficiently growing alfalfa include: 

Hay Harvesting:

Harvest Alfalfa hay at the optimal stage of maturity, typically during the early bloom stage. Harvesting too early or late can lower nutritional content and reduce palatability.

Cut Alfalfa hay at an appropriate height 2 to 4 inches from the ground. This ensures regrowth and helps maintain the long-term health of the forage stand.

Drying and Curing:

Allow hay to dry in the field appropriately, depending on weather conditions. Proper drying is essential to prevent mold and heat damage during storage and reduce the risk of nutrient loss. This promotes the production of a high-quality forage product. Plan for a weather-dependent curing period, typically 3 to 5 days.

Bale Moisture Content:

It is essential to manage moisture levels in alfalfa hay storage effectively. Too moist hay can develop mold, whereas excessively dry hay leads to leaf shatter and nutrient loss. Aim to keep the moisture content between 15% and 18% for ideal storage conditions. Regular checks with a moisture probe are recommended to maintain this balance and avoid storage problems.

Bale Size and Shape:

Choose an appropriate bale size and shape for your storage and feeding systems. Small, square bales are more susceptible to moisture absorption than larger, round bales due to their higher surface area. 

Round and Well-compacted bales, when stored properly, shed water more effectively and resist spoilage. 

Avoid baling during rain or high humidity. If caught in unexpected rain, quickly dry the hay to prevent spoilage.

Storage Site Selection:

Selecting an appropriate storage site for maintaining alfalfa forage quality is vital. Choose a well-drained location to prevent water accumulation and protect it from contaminants such as chemicals or pollutants. Adequate ventilation prevents moisture buildup and restricts mold growth.

Storage Structures:

Various storage structures are commonly used for alfalfa hay, including barns, sheds, and stacks. Each structure has its advantages, but the primary goal is to protect the forage from the various elements, moisture, and sunlight.

Barns and sheds provide superior protection against rain and sunlight, while well-constructed stacks allow for better airflow. 

Stacks of alfalfa bales should be uniformly arranged during storage, which can significantly impact their longevity. Elevating the bottom of the bales can prevent moisture absorption from the ground. Avoid stacking bales too tightly, as this can impede airflow and increase the risk of mold.

Handling Techniques:

To minimize leaf loss and compaction, avoid unnecessary movement of bales. Use appropriate handling equipment, such as bale spears or forks, to reduce damage during loading and unloading. Regular handling equipment maintenance is crucial to prevent contamination and preserve hay quality.

Secure bales properly to prevent shifting and potential damage while transporting them on trailers or trucks. For handling small square bales, a pop-up loader on a truck can achieve a field loading rate of 1.5 tons per man-hour.

Implement a first-in, first-out feeding system to prevent long-term storage and potential spoilage.

Monitor and Control:

Regular monitoring of stored alfalfa hay is essential to identify and address possible issues promptly. Check for signs of mold, heating, or unusual odors. Sampling the hay periodically and testing for nutritional content can provide insights into its quality. It helps make necessary adjustments to storage conditions.

Conduct regular inspections for signs of insects, rodents, or other pests. Implement appropriate pest control measures, such as insecticides or traps, to prevent infestations that could reduce hay quality. Use temperature probes to monitor internal hay temperatures. Elevated temperatures may indicate microbial activity and immediate action can prevent further damage.

Conclusion: 

Efficient alfalfa hay storage and handling are key to maintaining its nutritional value, which is crucial for healthier livestock and enhanced farm productivity. Proper forage management through these strategies ensures optimal benefits for farmers and livestock owners.