Hay cut in June – focus on quality and safety

June is the perfect time for the hay cut. Longer days and warmer temperatures create ideal conditions for fast drying, helping farmers harvest nutritious, high-quality forage. But good hay isn’t just about nutrition – safe storage is just as important. Monitoring moisture and temperature levels can make all the difference.

When’s the right time to cut?

For optimal quality, hay should be cut at the early heading stage—before grasses start losing their energy content. Dry, sunny weather is key. After a few rain-free days, the grass dries faster, reducing the risk of spoilage and making collection easier.

Moisture matters

The best time to collect hay is when its moisture content falls to around 15–17%. Hay that’s too damp can become a breeding ground for mold and harmful mycotoxins. It may also begin to ferment, lowering its nutritional value and increasing internal bale temperatures.

Spontaneous combustion – a hidden risk

If wet hay is baled and stored without adequate drying, fermentation inside the bales can raise the temperature dangerously high. Once it passes 70°C (158°F), spontaneous combustion becomes a real threat—especially in enclosed barns or storage areas.

How to stay safe

• Check Moisture – Use a hay moisture meter before baling and storing.
• Watch the Heat – In the first few days after storage, monitor bale temperatures. Anything above 40°C (104°F) should raise concern.
• Keep it Ventilated – Store hay in a dry, well-aerated place, off the ground and away from moisture.
• Don’t Rush – If the hay isn’t quite dry, it’s better to leave it in the field a bit longer than risk overheating in the barn.

Final thoughts

A second hay cut in June is a great way to boost your supply of high-quality forage. But harvesting is only half the job—safe storage is just as crucial. Simple steps like checking moisture and temperature can prevent big problems down the line. On a farm where every bale counts, paying attention to the details truly pays off.
Dramiński HMM Hay Moisture Meter – an essential tool for controlling hay moisture.