November at Tom’s Hay Farm is a time of transition, where the cooler air signals the end of the intense summer harvest and the beginning of thoughtful preparation for the seasons ahead. As temperatures dip during the day and at night, our alfalfa and Bermuda fields slow down, but the work doesn't stop.
This month, we’re sharing the journey from seed to bale, a process honed over years of tending the soil, all to deliver that fresh, nutrient-packed feed you count on.
It starts with irrigation, the backbone of our operation. We flood the fields with 4-6 inches of water per acre to keep the alfalfa and bermuda thriving, checking ditches to ensure even distribution and prevent dry spots that could lower quality. From the initial seeding, these crops grow through summer's heat, reaching optimal height in about 25-30 days for alfalfa and 12-25 days for bermuda during peak times.
Once ready, we move to cutting, deploying mowers to slice the hay at the base for tenderness and nutrition, then letting it dry in windrows for 2-3 days under the fall sun to reach 15-20% moisture. Raking follows, where we turn and combine the rows with a side-delivery rake to ensure even drying and preserve those nutrient-rich leaves. Finally, baling compresses it into compact 105-lb bales, easy to handle and store, tested for moisture to avoid mold—ready for delivery to your barn, where it supports healthy herds.
As November winds down, we shift to winter mode, using the quieter months to reseed fields for spring growth and perform maintenance on all our farm equipment, from tractors to balers, ensuring everything's tip-top for the next season. This downtime is our chance to rebuild and reflect, grateful for the community that keeps us going. Stop by for your hay needs—we’re here to help your ranch thrive!
