Which crop monitors are out there for hay?

[nhbrrss]

I was wondering if you guys knew of any equipment out there to help figure out how much hay I'm getting from different areas and if any of you guys have ever heard of targeted fertilizing to help growth in specific parts of a field that are producing less.
Any info y'all could send my way would be much appreciated!

 

[Trillium Farm]

All of that has to be done through satellite input. One has to map and analyze the land (checking fertility etc) your tractor has to be equipped to receive the input. Not a cheap proposition, need a lot of land to justify cost vs savings in fertilizer and additional hay production. I believe Kubotas are set up for this system though.

 

[powerscol]

There are drone mappers popping up all over the country. One in my neighborhood specializes in irrigation water flow. He maps how the water is flowing across the field. Check you local area and you may find one that can map your fields based on hay growth.
Hope this helps

 

[fishheadbob]

Soil tests are mandatory before you start throwing fertilizer at fields. They will save you money over guestimates.

 

[Gee Ray]

Soil samples sent to your county extension agent will give you a good starting point. Your observations during the growing seasons are very important. If your fields are fenced you can tie ribbons to the fence to shows low grow areas and this will be a low tech way of seeing the problem areas. If you have the ability or know some who has a drone have them fly over the field when it is close to ready and look for yellowish areas vs dark green areas. Fly over again and look for the density in the windrows and again flyover when it is baled. The density of the bales will show you areas that need the help. Also samples of the hay can be tested for the nutritional values and you then can amend the soil for the next year.