Hay testing can be an important alfalfa hay marketing tool for both seller and buyer. Sampling technique is a significant aspect of standardized hay testing, because the analysis is valid only if the sample analyzed represents the lot of hay. Within the lot size limitations, it can be packaged in any form or size of bale or stack. Remember that the larger the probe, the larger the sample. Keep the cutting tip sharp.
Some commercial probes come with a replaceable cutting tip.
For others, sharpen using a round file to scallop the inside edge. The sample for each lot should consist of at least 20 cores. Even if the sample gets large, it should not be divided because stems and leaves will separate and settle causing any subsample to no longer be representative of the lot. Sample rectangular bales using a probe centered in the end and drill horizontally into the bale, regardless of size. Sample round bales by drilling horizontally into the center of the curved side of the bale.