How to Rehydrate Your Windrows in Arid Climates

Better Leaf Retention Starts with Better Moisture Control

In arid regions, even top-quality alfalfa can go from ideal to brittle in a matter of hours. Intense sun, dry air, and hot winds speed up curing—too fast for your hay’s own good.

When the leaves dry faster than the stems, the result is one thing every grower dreads: leaf loss.

But you’re not stuck with it. From creating artificial dew to using misters or sprayers, more and more haymakers are rehydrating windrows to retain quality—and it’s working.

Why It Matters

Leaves are the most nutrient-rich part of the alfalfa plant. When they crumble off, you lose:

• Protein

• Digestibility

• Feed value

• Overall yield

Research shows that rehydrating windrows just before baling can significantly reduce leaf shatter, improve appearance, and raise total feed quality.
Source: Hay & Forage Grower, 2022

Ways to Rehydrate Your Windrows

No matter the equipment you use, the goal is simple: restore enough moisture to help leaves stay soft and attached while baling.

Here are a few ways haymakers are doing that:

Steamers

Some growers apply water directly to windrows using misting systems, water tanks, or dedicated sprayers. Others try to mimic natural dew, timing baling early in the morning or late in the evening.

Dew Simulators

These systems use a fine mist to replicate early-morning dew across the windrow. It’s a more controlled and even approach—helping leaves rehydrate without over wetting stems.

Timing Is Critical

Apply water early enough for absorption, late enough to avoid re-drying. Always monitor moisture levels before you head to the field.

What Moisture Level Should You Aim For?

Depending on your bale type and storage plan:

• Small squares: 16%–20%

• Large squares or rounds (with preservative): up to 30%

Accurate moisture readings are essential. Use a bale moisture sensor to make sure you’re not baling too wet—risking mold—or too dry, causing leaf loss.

Helpful Tools (Whatever Brand You Use)

This isn’t just about one product or solution—it’s about getting the most from every cutting. Here are a few tools haymakers rely on (including ours and others):

🌡️ Moisture Sensors

On-baler sensors provide real-time readings to help you make confident decisions—brand options vary depending on baler make and model.

🛡 Preservatives

If you’re baling at higher moisture levels, use a preservative that protects against mold and spoilage. Harvest Tec’s Baler’s Choice®, for example, is one option among many on the market.

💦 Rehydration Equipment

Whether you use a Harvest Tec Dew Simulator or another custom setup, the key is even, measured application and solid timing.

What’s the Payoff?

By rehydrating your windrows in low-humidity conditions, you can:

• Preserve more leaves

• Reduce dust and shatter

• Boost bale appearance and value

• Increase feed quality and ROI

In short: you’re not just saving hay—you’re maximizing its potential.

🎓 Want to Learn More?

Visit the Haymaker Hub, where we post educational articles, hay market updates, and tips to help you grow better forage—no matter what tools or brands you use.