Oklahoma Alfalfa
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

TIPS FOR COLLECTING ALFALFA SAMPLES

Alfalfa quality test results are only as good as the sample that is collected for analysis. Following are some tips for collecting representative alfalfa hay samples for quality analysis.   

A separate alfalfa sample should be collected for each hay "lot". A "lot" refers to a quantity of similar alfalfa (same cutting, stage of maturity, harvesting conditions, soil conditions, etc.).   

Sampling Procedures:   

• Small Square Bales - Select at least 20 representative bales. Probe one end of each bale at right angles to the surface.   
• Large Round Bales - Select at least 10 representative bales. Collect two cores from the circumference of each, probing to the center of the bale.   
• Large Square Bales - Select at least 10 representative bales. Probe both ends of each bale at right angles to the surface. Use a long probe or a probe with an extension adapter.   
• Loose Hay Stacks - Select a minimum of six representative stacks. Collect three cores from one side of each stack along a diagonal from the top to bottom corner. Sample at least two feet from the top or bottom edges of the stack.   

Hay Judging. OSU Extension Facts F-2588 
 
Collecting Forage Samples for Analysis. OSU Extension Facts F-2589
 
Minimizing Losses in Hay Storage and Feeding

Understanding Forage Quality