Figure 4.-Harvesting a 3-ton per acre yield of pangolagrass hay. Mechani-
cal advances in haymaking machinery have increased the storing and feeding of
this crop in Florida.

be used with good results to condition sickle-cut grass. Equip-
ment for harvesting pangolagrass must be in excellent condition.
Special precautions are required to avoid breakdowns caused by
stems wrapping on universal joints, shafts, and wheels.
 Grass for high quality hay can be produced by means of early
spring fertilization and complete protection from grazing. This
permits harvest by June 1, which ordinarily is early enough to
avoid rainy weather in central and south Florida. Most hay is
made from October 1 to November 15, when damage by rain is
less likely than in the spring. Hay harvest may be planned as
late as January if work and weather conditions are suitable.
Silage
 Silage made from pangolagrass has the excellent palatability
which is characteristic of this forage species. Large supplies can
be produced during midsummer when curing hay is difficult or
impossible (34). Silage made during July and August adds to
the feed-producing potential of grassland areas.
 Grass cut at the full-heading stage will yield 6 to 12 tons per
acre of green material having approximately 25% dry matter.
Loading directly into the silo without wilting or use of pre-
servative produces silage of satisfactory feeding quality. Addi-
tives are not necessary for preservation and palatability when
compaction is thorough and moisture levels are adequate (23).


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