Hay Handling Buying Guide For Farms: Everything You Need To Know
Having to handle hay for your farm can be a daunting and time-consuming task. From buying the right amount of hay, to storing it properly, there’s a lot to consider when purchasing hay for your farm. In this Hay Handling Buying Guide For Farms, you will learn all about the basics of hay handling and how to make sure you have enough hay on hand throughout the year. We’ll also discuss tips for finding high-quality hay as well as safety precautions when handling and storing it. With this guide, you’ll find answers to all your questions related to buying and handling hay so that you can rest assured that your animals are getting the best possible feed.
What is Hay?
Hay is a type of feed for animals that has been harvested and dried in the sun. It generally consists of grasses, clover, alfalfa and other legumes. The most common types of hay are Bermuda, Timothy and Alfalfa Hay. Hay is usually used as fodder for livestock such as horses, cows, sheep and goats. It’s also often used as bedding material or to cover the ground in outdoor arenas or pastures.
How much hay should I buy?
The amount of hay you need depends on how many animals you have and what types of animals they are. Generally speaking, a horse will eat between 1-2% of its bodyweight in hay per day, while a cow typically eats between 3-4% of their bodyweight. It’s important to remember that these are only estimates and your animals’ actual intake could be higher or lower depending on several factors including age, activity level and health. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to overestimate the amount of hay you need so that you have enough for the entire year.
What type of hay should I buy?
The type of hay you purchase will depend on the animals you’re feeding. Generally speaking, Bermuda Hay is recommended for horses due to its high nutrient content while Timothy Hay is better suited for cows since it contains more protein and fiber. Alfalfa Hay is also an option for both types of animals, although it’s important to note that it should only be fed to younger, growing animals as its high calcium content can be harmful in large quantities.
How do I store Hay?
Hay needs to be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s best to keep hay bales off the ground on pallets or racks so that they don’t get wet due to condensation or contaminated with rodents and pests. Additionally, you need to make sure there is good airflow around the hay bales so they don’t start to mold or rot. To prevent pests from getting into your hay, it’s a good idea to cover the bales with a tarp.
How long does Hay last?
The shelf life of hay depends on how it’s stored and handled. Generally speaking, hay stored in a cool and dry place can last up to two years if properly cared for. However, if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures, its quality will deteriorate much faster. It’s important to check the expiration date on any hay you purchase and make sure there are no signs of mold or rot before feeding it to your animals.
What should I look for when buying Hay?
When purchasing hay for your farm, it’s important to look for high-quality bales. The most important factors to consider are the color, smell and texture of the hay. Good quality hay should be a uniform shade of green with no yellow or brown spots and have a pleasant, sweet smell. Additionally, it should feel dry and brittle when you touch it; if it’s too soft or damp, that could indicate mold growth.
How can I tell if Hay is safe?
The best way to make sure your hay is safe is to inspect each bale before buying it. Look for signs of pests or disease such as small holes in the bales or an unusually strong odor. You should also check the expiration date on any hay you purchase and make sure it’s within the recommended storage period. Finally, make sure to store your hay in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and cover with a tarp to help prevent any contamination.
Hay is an important feed for livestock animals such as horses, cows, sheep and goats. It’s important to buy high-quality hay that has been harvested and dried properly in order to ensure your animals are getting the best possible feed. When purchasing hay, look for uniform green color without yellow or brown spots, check the expiration date on the bale and inspect for signs of pests or disease. Once purchased, it should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight with good airflow around the bales. With the proper storage and handling, hay can last up to two years.