Alfalfa, hay, and mixed species pasture crops have a very high demand for water. If you could achieve 1st cutting yield on subsequent cuttings (Generally 30 – 60% of annual yield), would that peak your interest? The following information tries to give you a snapshot of what your hay and pastures need, compared to what mother nature provides. While these crops are a bit more difficult to measure, without a yield monitor, perhaps you should make the effort.

Corn requires more water than many other crops to stay cool and produce a bountiful yield. The important part of this equation is when the peak demand is needed relative to when Michigan gets its rainfall. While soil types with various water holding capacities can play a big role in plant available water, the following chart is designed to encourage you look at your farm and specific fields.