Quick Overview
Are you quick to embark on therewarding journeyof growing your own timothy hay ? This versatile pasture crop is a staple for sawbuck , kine , and other livestock , providing indispensable nutrient and roughage . Whether you ’re a veteran farmer or anovice gardener , thiscomprehensive guidewill endue you with the noesis and techniques to successfully plant timothy hay seeds .
Choosing the Right Seeds
The foundation of asuccessful hay craw liesin selecting high - character seeds . Opt for certified seeds from a reputable supplier toensure pureness , germination charge per unit , anddisease resistance . Consider the mood and filth conditions in your sphere when choose the appropriate smorgasbord of timothy hay seeds .
Preparing the Soil
Before planting , it ’s essential to develop the soil to provide anoptimal environmentfor seed germination and development . Conduct a soil test to determine thepH leveland nutritious content . If necessary , amend the grunge with lime or fertiliser to bring it to theideal rangefor timothy hay growth ( pH 6.0 - 6.5 ) .
Seedbed Preparation
Create a well - prepared seedbedby till the stain to a astuteness of 6 - 8 inch . Remove any sens or debris to keep competition andencourage seed - to - dirt contact . apply a roller or packer to tauten the seedbed and insure uniform wet distribution .
Planting the Seeds
The idealistic time toplant timothy hay seedsis in the decline or former spring whensoil temperaturesare between 50 - 60 ° F ( 10 - 16 ° C ) . Broadcast theseeds evenlyover the prepare seedbed at a charge per unit of 10 - 15 pounds per Accho . Then , light rake the seminal fluid into the ground to a depth of no more than 1/4 inch .
Watering
After planting , body of water the seedbed thoroughly to wash the grunge andencourage seed sprouting . Maintain consistent moisture levels throughout the germination period , butavoid overwatering , which can lead toseed rotand disease .
Fertilizing
Weed Control
Mary Jane can compete with timothy hay for food , water , and sun . Implement aweed control programthat includes pre - emerging herbicide , post - emerging herbicides , and mechanical cultivation .
Harvesting
Timothy hay istypically readyto harvest in 50 - 60 Clarence Shepard Day Jr. after implant . The ideal time to glean is when the plant life are in the boot stage , before the germ heads emerge . Use asickle bar moweror mower - conditioner to cut the hay .
Curing
After harvest , the hay must be cured toreduce wet contentandprevent spoil . distribute the hay out in a well - air out areaand admit it to dry for several days , turn it occasionally to assure even drying .
Baling
Once the hay is cure , it ’s ready to be baled . Baling preserves the hay and makes it easier to stack away and transport . Use a hay baler tocreate balesof thedesired sizeand density .
Summary: Reaping the Rewards of Your Own Timothy Hay
Growing timothy hay from seeds is a fulfilling endeavour that providesnutritious foragefor your farm animal and a sense of attainment . By take these steps and embracing the challenge that come with farming , you may establish asuccessful timothy hay operationand enjoy the benefits of homegrown hay .
Answers to Your Questions
Q : How often should I water timothy hay seeds?A : Water the seedbed thoroughly after plant andmaintain consistent moisture levelsthroughout thegermination stop . Avoid overwatering . Q : What is theideal soil pHfor timothy hay growth?A : Timothy hay prefersasoil pHbetween 6.0 and 6.5 . Amend the soil with calcium hydroxide or fertiliser if necessary . Q : Can Iplant timothy hay seedsin the summer?A : While it ’s possible toplant timothy hay seedsin the summertime , theideal timeis in the tumble or other leaping whensoil temperaturesare optimal for sprouting .
