All across the country, grass is on the move—upwards! These are the weeks and months of hay production, and as the grass grows taller and taller, we horse owners get closer and closer to the time when we need to store up hay for another year.
Unless you are able to produce hay yourself, you’ll probably buy it from an area farmer. The exact type of hay available will vary widely from region to region. Also, nutritional requirements vary for each individual horse, so the selection of a specific type of hay is definitely something to get advice on. Your equine veterinarian or other local horse owners can give you advice about hay types, as can local hay growers.
But no matter what variety of hay you choose, there are some general key points that high-quality hay should exhibit. Some things to consider include:
Here’s a potentially money-saving tip that will keep both you and the farmer happy. Putting up hay is a lot of work—especially horse-friendly small square bales. Some hay producers might consider giving you a small discount if you buy your hay “off the field”—meaning, before the farmer has put it in his barn. Selling hay off the field saves the farmer a lot of work because it eliminates an extra loading and unloading. It can be more of a hassle for you, since you must be ready to accept the hay whenever it is ready and you also must have a safe storage place available for the hay while it cures. But this can be a win-win situation for you and your hay grower.
Liked this article? Here’s more on hay: All About HayHay Buying without the Hassle
Daniel Johnson is a freelance writer and professional photographer, and watcher of horse movies. His favorite is probably Misty (1961). He’s the author of several books, including How to Raise Horses: Everything You Need to Know, (Voyageur Press, 2014). Dan’s barn is home to Summer, a Welsh/TB cross, Orion, a Welsh Cob, and Mati and Amos, two Welsh Mountain Ponies.
Great advice. I let my horse in on selection too.
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