First Cutting vs. Late-Season Hay: What Washington Buyers Should Know Before Stocking Up for Fall
Fall is when smart Washington horse, goat, sheep, cattle, and small-animal owners fill the hay barn. Rain is coming, supply tightens through winter, and prices tend to climb by January. But before you buy a season’s worth, it helps to know what you’re buying, because not all hay is the same, even when it’s the same grass.
The biggest difference is which cutting it came from.
What is “first cutting”?
First cutting is the first harvest of the season, usually taken in late spring to early summer, depending on your region and the weather. In Washington, that can mean a big difference between the wetter west side and the drier east side, where irrigated fields often produce multiple cuttings.
What to expect from first cutting:
- Coarser, stemmier texture. The plant has had a long stretch of growth, so stems are thicker and seed heads are more common.
- More fiber, generally lower in protein and sugar than later cuttings (this varies with maturity at harvest).
- Larger bales and good volume for the money. Often a strong value for bulk buyers.
- Higher variability. Spring weather can make curing tricky, so quality depends heavily on the grower and the year.
What is “late-season” hay?
Late-season hay (second, third, or later cuttings) is harvested after the field has regrown. Regrowth happens in warmer, shorter stretches, so the plant stays leafier and finer.
What to expect from late-season cuttings:
- Softer, leafier, finer stems. Animals often find it more palatable.
- Typically higher in protein and digestible energy than a mature first cutting.
- Greener and sweeter-smelling in many cases.
- Usually priced higher because yields are smaller and demand is strong.
Which is right for your animals?
| Animal | Often a good fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Easy keepers, overweight horses, ponies | First cutting | Lower sugar and energy, more chewing time |
| Hard keepers, seniors, lactating or growing animals | Late-season | Higher nutrient density, softer for older teeth |
| Goats and sheep | Often late-season, or a mix | They tend to pick leaves and refuse stems |
| Beef and dairy cattle | Depends on production stage | Match feed value to needs |
| Rabbits, guinea pigs, small animals | Leafy, fine-textured hay | Softer and more palatable |
This is general guidance. Needs vary by animal, so check with your vet or equine nutritionist, especially for animals with metabolic conditions.
5 questions to ask before you stock up
- What cutting is it, and when was it harvested?
- Can you share a hay test? Protein, fiber (ADF/NDF), and sugar/NSC numbers beat guessing by color.
- How was it stored? Hay should be dry, covered, and off the ground. Look for dust, mold, or a musty smell.
- Where did it come from? Local Washington hay can mean fresher supply and less trucking. Ask about the field and grower.
- How many bales will you actually use? Estimate your animals’ daily intake through spring so you don’t over- or under-buy.
Storage tips for Washington’s wet season
- Keep hay off the ground on pallets.
- Store under a roof with airflow, not sealed tight.
- Avoid stacking against walls where moisture can wick in.
- Check bales regularly for heat, mold, or condensation.
First cutting is often the budget-friendly, high-fiber foundation for animals that don’t need rich feed. Late-season cuttings are the softer, higher-nutrient option for animals that need more from every bite. Many buyers combine them, or choose a mixed hay that balances the two.
