June grass hay refers to the hay that is made from the grass known as prairie junegrass. Prairie junegrass is a native grass species that is commonly found in rangelands, plains, and open forestlands. It is a cool season grass, meaning it grows best in cooler temperatures.
One notable characteristic of prairie junegrass is its tufted bunchgrass growth habit. This means that it grows in clumps or tufts, rather than spreading out like some other grasses. The height of prairie junegrass can range from 0.5 to 2 feet tall, depending on environmental conditions and management practices.
The leaves of prairie junegrass are narrow and form small basal clusters. These leaves are typically flat or may be slightly in-rolled, and they have sharp tips. The arrangement of the leaves gives the grass its characteristic tufted appearance.
When it comes to making hay, prairie junegrass can be a valuable forage option. The grass can be cut and dried to create hay that is suitable for feeding livestock. The nutritional quality of prairie junegrass hay can vary depending on factors such as the stage of growth at which it was cut and the soil conditions in which it was grown.
Like other cool season grasses, prairie junegrass is known for its ability to provide early season forage. It tends to start growing earlier in the spring than some other grasses, making it an important source of feed for livestock during this time. Additionally, prairie junegrass hay can be a good option for winter feed, as it retains its nutritional value well when properly dried and stored.
In my personal experience, I have seen prairie junegrass hay being used as a feed option for horses and cattle. It is often mixed with other grass hays or legume hays to balance the nutritional content. The tufted growth habit of prairie junegrass can make it a bit more challenging to harvest and bale compared to other grasses, but with proper equipment and management, it can be successfully harvested and stored.
Prairie junegrass hay is a valuable forage option for livestock, particularly in regions where it is native and abundant. Its early season growth and ability to retain nutritional value make it a valuable addition to a livestock feeding program.
