Which of the following practices would NOT help in reducing field losses during haymaking?

Delaying cutting until full maturity would generally not be beneficial in reducing field losses during haymaking. While mature forage may have higher yields, it can also lead to increased losses due to factors such as greater moisture content, which can encourage mold and spoilage. Additionally, as plants reach full maturity, they often lose nutritional quality, making the hay less desirable for feeding. Proper timing of harvest, on the other hand, is crucial for ensuring the highest quality of forage and minimizing losses. Therefore, understanding the optimal harvest time can greatly influence the success of the haymaking process. Using preservatives and properly conditioning the forage are also effective practices that help in maintaining quality and reducing losses, further reinforcing why delaying cutting is not advisable for minimizing field losses.