Some factors in connection with heating of hay.

Abstract

The temperatures in numerous haystacks were measured during 1953-4. The heating of hay was shown to be promoted by a high moisture-content, heavy N-dressings, high clover-content, the presence of young grass and by a large volume and height of stack. Moisture content, which should not exceed 25%, was the most important factor. The influence of the other factors was generally greater in hay made on the ground than in hay made in racks where the temperature rarely exceeded 55 degrees C. It was considered that fire danger and high-temperature damage would be much reduced by making hay on racks, especially under uncertain weather-conditions. It was thought preferable to spread the hay over several small stacks, close together if necessary, rather than to put all of the hay into one big stack. The temperature of stacks was much influenced by the time spent in their construction. The danger of over-heating proved greater after early mowing and, in general, protein-rich material was conducive to it.-J.F.G. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)