Spring Rain Boosts Texas Hay and Forage Outlook – First cuttings signal strong start for 2025 growing season

Recent rainfall across Texas has significantly improved Texas hay and forage conditions, setting the stage for a strong start to the 2025 hay season. Many producers across Central and East Texas have already begun their first hay cuttings, with early baling primarily consisting of volunteer annual ryegrass. Favorable moisture levels in these regions are contributing to expectations of solid yields for the first harvest. Continued success throughout the season will depend on future rainfall and appropriate fertilizer application, which are both trending positively for the months ahead. Forecast models indicate that East Texas may see continued favorable conditions through July, improving the outlook for both hay production and grazing pastures.

In East Texas, coastal Bermuda grass is beginning to emerge thanks to recent rains. Producers are actively baling ryegrass and preparing for summer forage growth. Increased soil testing has become a common practice, helping producers optimize fertilizer usage amid rising costs. Current hay prices remain steady, with fertilized round bales averaging between $60 and $70, and non-fertilized bales around $45. With a significant amount of hay carried over from last year and more expected from the current cuttings, ranchers are closely monitoring yields to determine winter feed needs. Many are retaining heifers for herd replacement, while still capitalizing on strong cattle market prices.

In the Brazos Valley, conditions are also favorable despite recent dry spells. A lack of late-season freezes allowed early baling of ryegrass, giving summer forages a head start. While temperatures have supported forage growth, some areas still need additional rainfall to maintain momentum heading into summer. Across the state, warm-season perennial grasses have broken dormancy and are actively growing. However, producers are being encouraged to manage stocking rates carefully to avoid overgrazing as summer approaches.

AgriLife Extension Regional Highlights
Central Texas
Recent rainfall improved conditions across the region. Fields greened up rapidly and crops responded with strong growth. Livestock remained in good condition, while pasture fertilization and herbicide applications increased. Some rivers and lakes benefited from runoff, but deep soil moisture was still lacking. In some cases, cotton fields were submerged, and wheat faced bird damage and rust infestations.

Rolling Plains
Up to 12 inches of rain in some areas greatly improved surface moisture, enhancing rangeland and pasture conditions. Although the rain arrived too late to help struggling wheat, it significantly boosted spring grass growth and stock tank levels. Corn and sorghum planting began in moist conditions, although low-lying fields showed yellowing from waterlogging.

Coastal Bend
Rainfall ranged from light showers to over 3 inches. Soil moisture improved in areas with heavier rain. Early-planted corn entered the silk stage in excellent condition, while mid- and late-season crops were more variable. Pastures showed rapid growth, and some hay fields neared their first cutting. Livestock body conditions improved, and calves began maturing well.

Southeast Texas
Light to moderate rainfall improved soil moisture in several counties, though others remained dry. Grazing conditions improved overall. Pasture and rangeland conditions ranged from poor to excellent, and soil moisture was varied. Hay cutting was delayed in areas affected by excessive rainfall and humidity.

South Plains
Some areas received up to 3 inches of rain, while others remained dry. Wheat benefited from cooler temperatures and humidity. In rain-receiving areas, warm-season grasses improved significantly. Livestock were mostly in good condition, with some still requiring supplemental feed.

Panhandle
Widespread rainfall was beneficial for pasture and wheat growth. However, some areas experienced flooding and tornadoes. Corn planting was underway where possible. Soil temperatures were nearing levels suitable for cotton planting. Native grasses and pastures showed healthy new growth, and cattle grazing wheat were in excellent condition.

North Texas
Rainfall improved pasture and rangeland conditions, with most counties reporting fair to good status. Winter wheat matured well, and corn fields progressed, despite some saturation issues. Livestock began putting on weight thanks to spring grasses, and many producers completed their first hay cutting.

Far West Texas
Rainfall improved soil moisture and supported forage growth, though drought conditions persisted in some areas. Cotton and hay grazer planting was ongoing. Irrigation continued in regions with limited water access. Crops including corn and melons were progressing, and pecan orchards and alfalfa fields received timely watering. Livestock remained in fair condition.

West Central Texas
Rainfall ranged from 1 to 4 inches across the district, improving topsoil moisture and greening up pastures. Subsoil moisture remained short, and several more rain events will be needed to support sustained grazing. Sudan grass planted before the rain showed good growth. Cattle looked healthy, though supplemental feeding continued, and producers weaned calves early to support cow recovery.

South Texas
Hot and dry conditions persisted for most of the week, though midweek showers brought relief to some parts of the region. Soil moisture and stock tank levels remained low in areas that missed rainfall. Fieldwork continued with cotton and peanuts being planted. Hay production benefited from recent rain, with good yields where fertilizer and herbicide timing aligned. Livestock and wildlife were in good shape, although feed prices remain elevated.

Outlook

The 2025 hay and forage season is off to a strong start across Texas, fueled by recent rainfall and moderate temperatures. While early signs point to favorable yields and improved pasture conditions, producers will continue to rely on timely rainfall and careful resource management to sustain momentum through the summer. If you are interested in having your hay sampled you can check out this list of suggestions from the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension of Austin County