Moisture Meters For Hay In Uganda

Why Use a Hay Moisture Meter?

Hay is used for animal feed, bedding, and sometimes even for trade. The moisture content of hay is critical because:

• High moisture (above safe levels) leads to mold growth, spoilage, and even self-heating which can cause fires.

• Too dry hay can lose nutritive value (leaves shatter, sugars degrade), reducing feed quality.

• Knowing moisture helps you decide when to bale, when to store, and how long to cure.

In Uganda’s climate—where days are hot, rains come in seasons, humidity fluctuates—having a reliable hay moisture meter lets you optimize drying, prevent losses, and maintain high quality fodder.

What Moisture in Hay Is Safe?

While the safe moisture content for hay depends on how it's stored (bales, windrow, square vs round bales, tightness, ventilation), typical safe moisture ranges are:

• For large round or square bales stored outdoors or in barns: around 15%–20% moisture is generally safe.

• For haylage or tightly compacted hay bales: you may need a lower moisture (≈ 12%-15%) to prevent spoilage.

• If moisture is above 25% or more, risk of mold, heating, and degradation is high.

A hay moisture meter should measure across a wide range (say ~5%–40% or more) to let you see readings from drying stage through safe storage stage.