The most important factor in producing quality native grass hay is harvest date. Time of harvest will affect total yield, forage quality, usable regrowth and species composition of the hayland.

In general, as the growing season progresses total hay yield increases. At the same time hay quality decreases in relation to the crude protein available in the hay. As the native grass plant matures, more and more of the nitrogen compounds (proteins) it produces through photosynthesis are translocated to the roots and stem bases. These root reserves will form the basis for new growth the following spring. It is not possible to obtain the highest quantity and quality of hay in the same cutting. If you cut for the highest quality, the tonnage will be low. If you time the cutting for the highest tonnage, the quality will be low. A compromise between these two cutting times is necessary.

For native hayland in the tallgrass prairie region of Kansas the latest recommended cutting date is July 20. Haying prior to this date will provide good tonnage and quality. If hay is cut later than this date, there is not adequate time left in the growing season to allow the native grass plants to replenish root reserves. With low reserves hay production will be less during subsequent years. Haying dates in August and September can also change the grass species composition of the native grass hayland. Desirable grasses become less abundant and undesirable. Lower quality vegetation tends to increase with continued, late harvests. Only one cutting of hay per year should be considered for native grass.

Another important factor in the proper haying of native grass is cutting height. Harvesting at the proper height will allow for quick and adequate regeneration and replenishing root reserves going into the dormant season. In cutting native grass for hay the minimum cutting height should be no less than 4 inches.

Grazing of hayland regrowth is generally not recommended. If done it should not be allowed until after a hard freeze. Grazing before plant dormancy will have the same effect as cutting the meadow more than once during the growing season. The grass plants would enter winter with low root reserves and would be less vigorous the following spring. For native hayland it is advisable to maintain at least 8 inches of regrowth going into winter to protect the soil surface from water and wind erosion and to also catch and hold snow for added soil moisture.

Following these simple tips in properly managing native grass hayland will ensure adequate quantity and quality of forage during current and future years. Additional benefits will be realized from saving soil and water and providing additional wildlife habitat.

— John R. Piskac is a resource conservationist for Natural Resources Conservation Service in Manhattan.