Im currently feeing Hay to my horses and I am thinking of changing over to haylage as it seems to be more readily available. What are the main differences between the hay and haylage?
This type of query has become more common in recent years due to the widespread availability of haylage and the decline in the production of Hay mainly due to unfavorable harvesting conditions. Hay is cut, turned and left to dry until reaching a dry matter of 85-90% at which point it can be baled. Reducing the moisture level to this extent will minimise the risk of mould development during storage, however this drying process inevitably leads to leaf breakage/fracture, creating dust and some nutrient loss (water soluble carbohydrates (WSC), protein, vitamins and minerals). Haylage is cut (preferably at a stubble height of at least 8cm to avoid soil contamination of bales), semi wilted and baled within 24 hours at a dry matter level of 55-65%, therefore, leaf damage/breakage and nutrient losses are kept to a minimum. The bales are compressed and wrapped in several layers of plastic to eliminate oxygen and create the anaerobic conditions necessary for desirable fermentation to occur. Dur
Related Questions
- Im currently feeing Hay to my horses and I am thinking of changing over to haylage as it seems to be more readily available. What are the main differences between the hay and haylage?
- I currently have a propane (or oil or gas) furnace and I am thinking about changing to a Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP). What should I be aware of?
- What do you think about a Tom Thumb bit? Was thinking about changing bits, any suggestions?
