208 FORAGE CROPS 
are very superior. Yields have been secured, under 
good conditions, ranging from three to four tons 
per acre from the first cutting, and frequently one 
ton and a half in the second cutting, making it 
also a very profitable crop from the standpoint of 
supply of nutrients. It is not recommended that 
fields that are intended to serve as hay should be 
pastured, although the pasture is of excellent 
quality. 
If made into hay for use on the farm, the crop 
should be cut before it matures, if the largest 
quantity of highly palatable and digestible dry 
matter is to be obtained. When the plants are in 
blossom, or immediately after,—if there is a large 
proportion of the grasses,— may be regarded as 
the best time to cut under average conditions. The 
plants harden rapidly after this period, increasing 
proportionately the indigestible woody fiber and 
decreasing the digestible protein. Timothy grown 
for market purposes may be cut at a later period, 
for market conditions demand _ well - matured, 
though not over-ripe hay, and increased yields 
are secured if cut. at this later period. 
