Damp hay

2 posts

Member for

8 years 2 months
Last seen: 03/08/2018 - 21:05
Joined: 01/01/2016 - 09:45

Damp hay

Hello, I'm new to this forum and I'm hoping for some help today. This week I've had two paddocks baled (~120 small square bales). I was able to get in approx. 30 to 40 bales and the others are still in the paddock. Unfortunately, last night we had a shower for about 5 minutes. It came down relatively heavy in that time. This morning, I can feel that the outside of the bales are damp. I've stood them all up in teepees in hope they dry out today. It is sunny today and about 20C with a slight breeze. Is there any hope of saving the rest of my bales? Any advice will be much appreciated. I am based in North West Tasmania if that is any help in answering my question. Regards, Sarah

Last seen: 09/17/2019 - 18:07
Joined: 11/23/2011 - 09:38

Hi Sarah,

 

as long as they stay dry now and don't show signs of mould, they should be o.k. turn them over once a day to allow the side which is inside to the outside.  Huge job I know. Had five hundred to turn like this a few years ago and managed to save almost all of them. Those that develop mould, especially powdery mildew, should be used for garden mulch not stock feed. If you have any mouldy ones wear a dust mask as the mould spores if inhaled can cause a nasty lung infection. Been there done that and it took me about three months to recover from it.

 

I don't want to alarm you, but forwarned is forarmed. It will be obvious if any are mouldy just by the smell or if you can see grey mould on the outside.

Hope this helps.

 

cheers,

Barb

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