The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: greengumbo on July 04, 2017, 10:16:04 am

Title: Barley field and pigs
Post by: greengumbo on July 04, 2017, 10:16:04 am

We appropriated a paddock from our already sown barley field for our latest weaners in March. Well the wenares have a arrived and the barley is about 70cm up with ears forming but still green and lush:)

The pigs are loving trashing it and munching it up which is great to see ! One question. Should I reduce the amount of feed we give them since they are getting this additional input ?

Title: Re: Barley field and pigs
Post by: Marches Farmer on July 04, 2017, 09:43:24 pm

Beware of giving them unlimited access to greenery while still so young.   Stalks and awns can be pretty tough and can impact in the gut, with dire consequences.

Title: Re: Barley field and pigs
Post by: greengumbo on July 06, 2017, 02:23:03 pm

Oh thanks for that. We don't really have an alternative at the moment as the entire field is barley !

I guess I could get the brushcutter out and clear some away in their paddock rather than let them munch it all.

Title: Re: Barley field and pigs
Post by: sabrina on July 06, 2017, 02:53:44 pm

Won't barley make them too fat. Plus being green could upset them in large amounts.

Title: Re: Barley field and pigs
Post by: DuncanDavis on July 13, 2017, 10:35:56 am

maybe worth getting some pallets or electric fence and making an enclosure, and then cut armfuls and throw in. Or gradually move the enclosure around. At least until its ripened