Do you know that you can actually grow quality hay for your livestock rather than buying? Growing alfalfa or Timothy hay is simple with a few steps. However due to bulk need for hay, some animal farmers prefer to buy hay from local vendors who consistently produce and supply hay as a business. However if you have just a few cattle then buying hay is normal. But if you still want to grow your hay then let's dive into it. Steps To Grow Hay Follow the below steps to produce the best hay for your livestock. Choose A Good Field : Soil pH should be in the 6.5 to 7 range for vigorous alfalfa growth, Anderson says. Ideally, you’d choose a field that you already know hasn’t struggled with weed issues in the past. If you must use a weed-prone site, you’ll need to consider different alfalfa varieties and herbicide options. Plant The Seeds : Anderson suggests choosing an alfalfa variety that’s more digestible and low-lignin for a better chance at a healthy, abundant crop. Observe Fie...
When it comes to feeding livestock, farmers have more choices than ever in how they store and deliver hay. Among these options, small square hay bales remain one of the most popular and practical choices. While large round or large square bales offer efficiency for big operations, small bales still hold important advantages—especially for certain types of animals and specific management styles. Below is a breakdown of why many farmers still prefer small square bales, and which livestock benefit the most from them. 1. Easier Handling and Storage One of the biggest advantages of small square bales is their manageable size and weight . Typically weighing 40–60 lbs (18–27 kg), they can be handled by: A single person Older farmers Youth helping on small farms Hobby farmers working without tractors This makes feeding and transporting hay far simpler than moving 600–1,200 lb large bales, which often require tractors or machinery. Flexible Storage Small bales stack easily into near...
Feeding moldy or spoiled hay can harm horses, cattle, goats, and other livestock, leading to respiratory issues, digestive problems, and even poisoning. Because hay quality can decline during harvesting, storage, or transport, being able to recognize mold and spoilage is essential for protecting your animals. This guide explains the sight, smell, texture, and moisture clues that help you identify problem hay—and know when to discard it. 1. Look for Changes in Color Color is often the first visible sign of hay spoilage. Warning Colors: Gray or white patches: Common indicators of mold growth Black areas: Often caused by moisture pockets or severe mold Dull yellow or brown: Suggests age, sun bleaching, or weather damage Very dark hay: May have been overheated during baling or storage Good hay should appear green or greenish-gold. While some discoloration happens naturally over time, strong gray or dark patches usually signal mold. 2. Smell the Hay Carefully Smell is one...
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