when to cut

[horses2]

I have a farmer that cuts & bales my hayfields. It is a good arraingment, he does the soil tests 2x/yr, and has the fields fetilized based on the tests, and and sprayed for weeds usually 1x/yr. Our crop split works for both of us. I am concerned that he seems to let the hay (orchardgrass/timothy mix) mature a bit too long for my (actually my wifes horses) tastes. I believe the issue is labor and scheduling.
What is the opinion of everyone on the best time to cut a timothy/orcardgrass mix? the field this year has been soil tested and fetilized, and with some recent good weather, the hay has jumped to about a ffot tall right now.
Am I correct in thinking the hay should be taken right before seed heads develop? last year, the weather prevented us from taking the first cut until way late. The upside was the seed I took off the haybine was respread and germinated well and that area is quite lush this year.

thanks,.

 

[Ed of all trades]

You want the seed heads to be developing but not near mature. Ed

 

[Jd5203]

You want the heads to be about 1/2 bloom no more than 3/4. When the seed head has developed fully all the nutrients are in the seed so basically you are feeding grain with straw.

 

[rdbigfarmboy]

Its all about weather and time.
If you can condition, roll and wrap you can shorten the time.
If you square just wait or grow a different hay