NRV Ranches has officially completed the first cut of alfalfa for the season—and it’s looking great! Alfalfa continues to be one of the most valuable forage crops for livestock, thanks to its high nutrient density and excellent digestibility. While several cuttings occur each year, the first cut is especially important, often setting the standard for the quality and yield of future harvests.
Here at NRV Ranches in Green River, Utah, we carefully time our first harvest by monitoring plant maturity. We aim to cut when the field reaches approximately 10% bloom, just before full flowering begins. This stage—known as the early bud stage—is when alfalfa delivers peak nutritional content. The leaves are rich in protein, and the stems are still soft and palatable, making it an ideal time to harvest.
Alfalfa cut at this stage offers exceptional feed value. It typically contains higher protein levels, making it excellent for supporting growth, milk production, and overall animal health. The fiber content is lower, which improves digestibility, and the relative feed value (RFV) is significantly higher than later cuttings. This first cut is especially well-suited for high-performing animals such as dairy cows, show cattle, and young stock that depend on nutrient-dense forage to thrive.
Timing and technique are everything when it comes to capturing this value. At NRV Ranches, we prioritize careful harvesting and baling methods to maintain the nutritional integrity of our hay. By focusing on best practices, we ensure our Green River alfalfa consistently meets the high standards our customers expect.
Our first cut is now fresh, baled, and ready for delivery. If you’re looking for high-quality alfalfa to support the health and performance of your herd, look no further.
Contact us with all of your alfalfa needs!