Hay is a pretty generic term. It covers everything from clover, alfalfa, and timothy to prairie hay. Prairie cut early in the season can be weedy if it has wildflowers and plants that aren't grass mixed in. Cows will eat it horses are picker. From a mulch perspective first cut hay is okay to use because it won't have seed in it.
Hay from later in the season can introduce plants you don't want growing in your garden. Oat and wheat straw have had the seed (mostly) removed, but weeds will be a problem if present because straw is always cut after the grain crop has matured and been harvested so the weeds will be mature too.
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