The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Smallholding => Land Management => Topic started by: JackandJill on January 30, 2016, 02:11:50 pm

Title: Old Hay
Post by: JackandJill on January 30, 2016, 02:11:50 pm

Hi,
We have recently bought our smallholding all very excited, not expecting any animals for a while as the house needs so much work!

However, with the purchase came a dutch barn quarter full of hay.  Its been there for at least 3 years perhaps 5.  I'm guessing the rats have made it home too.  Is it any use, if not what can I do with it or to get rid of it?

thanks for any advice

Title: Re: Old Hay
Post by: devonlady on January 30, 2016, 02:56:52 pm

Take it to a corner of a field, take the strings off and, if possible throw a load of manure on top then leave it for six months. Then spread it on your garden or land. I'm envious!

Title: Re: Old Hay
Post by: Marches Farmer on January 30, 2016, 05:29:32 pm

If you have an area you plan to plant a vegetable garden spread it in an even layer and it'll suppress weed growth this Spring.  The worms will probably work it down into the soil over the next couple of months.  Ifyou have a vegetable garden already and the paths are soil, spreading thickly it along the paths will also keep them weed free for a year or so. 

Title: Re: Old Hay
Post by: SallyintNorth on February 09, 2016, 11:50:15 am

It may be perfectly usable - we fed ours and three neighbours' sheep on 4-year old hay one winter.  Get someone who knows about hay - preferably who has sheep, ponies or cattle - to have a look at it.  They may take it off your hands; they may even pay you something for it!

Title: Re: Old Hay
Post by: shoveller on February 09, 2016, 06:17:35 pm

the hay may well be ok, if so then keep it, your never know we may get a dreadful summer where you cant make hay and you wil be grateful for the hay you've got

Title: Re: Old Hay
Post by: JackandJill on February 12, 2016, 12:24:15 pm

thanks everyone, really helpful advice