The picture sums up 2012 harvest!

Haymaking is always a challenge in the UK climate.  2012 is proving to be more difficult than any other harvest.  In June we managed 17 acres of hay when normally we would have done +/- 300 acres! 

Cutting and hay making Meadow hay in July and August after a wet April-June has left battered wet crops, not a good start for quality.  Late, laid over crops mean that there is some mould growth in the base of the crop where it is so wet and the crop is further through its growth stages which means it is not as green and good looking as we would like.

Seed hay is advanced in its growth stages but in the main its still standing meaning quality is good for the year.

Yields are higher than the last few years which mean the at Smithy Briggs the sheds are nearly as full as last year but at least 150 acres of land has not even been cut, some will be completely wasted due to lack of quality.

The late 1st cut is bound to have a knock on effect to 2nd cuts.