Experimental methods in haymaking trials

Abstract

During several haymaking trials, difficulties were encountered with experimental methods and in the interpretation of the results obtained. Most serious were those arising from variability of test material in both swath and windrow form, susceptibility of cured or partly cured material to mechanical damage during sampling, time involved in carrying out replicated field treatments, and techniques employed in assessing losses of weight or of individual nutrients during curing. Additional field and laboratory work has since been undertaken to establish more precise experimental methods. Methods recommended for solving or minimizing difficulties, based on this work and on experience obtained in the original trials, are discussed. In particular, precautions necessary in removing samples from cured or almost cured material are indicated, and a method for lifting swaths or windrows for periodical weighing is outlined.