Hay and forage conditions improved across the state with recent rainfall, setting the stage for promising hay yields and rangeland conditions for livestock grazing, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service experts.
Yields look promising as baling is starting on the first crop of hay across Central and East Texas. (Michael Miller/Texas A&M AgriLife) First cuts of hay are in progress in many parts of the state, and producers are optimistic about prospective yields throughout the hay growing season.
“Currently, if anyone has already harvested or is preparing to harvest (hay) its most likely a majority volunteer annual ryegrass,” said Vanessa Corriher-Olson, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension state forage specialist and professor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Overton.
“I anticipate most first harvest will occur in the next two to three weeks. Most of Central Texas and East Texas has had good moisture recently, so that’s setting us up for a good first harvest.”
Corriher-Olson said producers’ 2025 hay season harvest outcomes will be “heavily dependent” on fertilizer applications and rainfall. Models suggest favorable rainfall in the upcoming months.
“According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, East Texas should have good growing conditions through the end of July,” she said. “Fingers are crossed.”
Cattle producers will be watching hay yields to gauge how many bales to have on hand to fulfill herd feeding needs this winter. Lamb said producers are holding back enough heifers for replacement in their herds but continue selling cows and calves to take advantage of record-high cattle prices.
COASTAL BEND
Some areas received trace amounts of rain to over 3 inches midweek. Light rain fell across the area on Easter Monday, with heavier rainfall near Houston. Soil moisture improved where significant rain fell, but more rain was needed. Planting was done, crops were emerging well and most looked good. Early planted corn was in excellent condition and in the early silk stage. Mid-season corn plantings were in poor to fair condition with varied maturity, and late-planted corn looked good. Sorghum and cotton followed similar trends, with late plantings appearing most uniform. Producers were managing a flush of weeds and grass as fields became dry enough to work. Pasture conditions continued to improve, with grass green-up and rapid growth. Some hay fields were close to a first cutting. Livestock body condition scores improved, and cattle remained in fair to good condition. Calves were starting to bloom. Most herds had calved out, and a high percentage of older cows and those in poorer condition were shipped. Pecan trees were blooming, and producers were scouting for pecan nut casebearers. Corn leafhopper scouting was active, with none found in the Upper Gulf Coast portion of the district, and thrips were present in cotton.
