You need a top-notch hay cover to keep your stored hay in prime condition, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through the process! This chapter will focus on three key factors: the type of hay you’re storing and where, and your local climate. With a clear picture of how these factors affect hay storage, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect cover.
Matching Cover to Hay Type
Different types of hay have distinct characteristics that affect which cover will work best. Let’s break it down:
Grass Hays
Grass hays, like Timothy, orchardgrass, and bromegrass, are generally easier to store because they’re less dense and have lower moisture content. Still, a good cover should be breathable to prevent moisture buildup and promote proper curing. Net wraps or woven fabrics are often good options. While grass hays aren’t as susceptible to sun damage as legumes, UV protection is still necessary to preserve vitamins and keep the color looking good. Moderate water resistance should be enough unless you’re in a region with lots of rain.
Legume Hays
Legume hays, such as alfalfa and clover, are a bit trickier than grass hays. They’re denser and have a higher leaf-to-stem ratio, which makes them more prone to spoilage.
Since legume hays are more sensitive to moisture, you’ll need a cover with excellent water-shedding capabilities. Woven fabrics, such as reinforced polyethylene or coated woven fabrics are good options. UV-resistant polyethylene films can be used for short-term protection or as an underlayment.
Alfalfa, in particular, is prone to sun bleaching, which can zap its vitamin A content, so it needs a cover with strong UV resistance to protect those nutrients. Remember to balance breathability with moisture protection to prevent condensation. Tightly woven fabrics with UV coatings can be a good option here.
Mixed Hays
Mixed hays can be a bit of a wild card since they contain both grasses and legumes. Their characteristics will vary depending on the mix, so focus on the dominant species and its needs. Generally, you’ll still want a balance of moisture protection, UV resistance, and breathability.
Storage Location
Where you store your hay plays a big role in determining the type of cover you’ll need. Let’s look at the different options:
Inside Storage (Barns or Sheds)
Don’t underestimate the importance of protecting your hay, even when it’s stored indoors! It’s true that hay stored inside generally needs less protection from the elements, but good ventilation and moisture control are still important. Breathable covers, like net wraps or loosely woven fabrics, are often the cover of choice for indoor storage. They allow air to circulate freely, preventing condensation and mold growth. Proper ventilation also helps reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion. This rare but serious fire hazard can occur when hay is stored improperly. However, if your barn is open-sided or has leaks or drafts that could expose your hay to moisture, a more protective cover, like a tarp or plastic film, is a better option for preventing water damage.
Outside Storage
Hay stored outdoors faces the full brunt of the elements, requiring a more robust cover for protection. Durability and weather resistance are the most important qualities when choosing a cover for outdoor storage. Woven fabrics, such as reinforced polyethylene or coated woven fabrics, are good options. UV-resistant polyethylene film can be used for short-term protection or as an underlayment. Be sure to consider your local climate and the typical weather conditions when making your selection.
Climate
Your local climate is another important consideration in choosing the right hay cover. Different climates present unique challenges, and your cover has to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way.
Precipitation
If you live in a rainy region, keeping your hay dry is a top priority. Choose a cover that sheds water effectively, like reinforced polyethylene or coated woven fabrics. Make sure the cover is tightly secured to prevent water from finding its way in.
If you experience heavy snowfall, your hay cover must withstand the snow’s weight without collapsing or tearing. Woven fabrics like RPE or coated woven fabrics are good options for snowy climates. Pay special attention to how you stack and secure your bales to prevent snow from piling up and potentially causing a collapse.
Wind
Windy conditions can be especially tough on hay covers. Choose a cover that’s wind-resistant and can be securely fastened to prevent it from blowing off or tearing. Adding extra weights or anchors can help keep the cover secure in high-wind areas.
Humidity
When the humidity is high, breathability is essential to prevent condensation from collecting under the cover and encouraging mold growth. Woven fabrics or net wraps can be good choices because they allow air to circulate while still protecting the hay from the elements.
Sun Exposure
Intense sunlight and UV radiation can cause hay to bleach and lose valuable nutrients, especially essential vitamins like A and D. If you’re storing hay in a sunny spot, choose a cover with strong UV resistance. White or light-colored covers are especially effective because they reflect heat and block a significant portion of harmful UV radiation.
Wrapping it Up
Matching your hay cover to your hay type, storage location, and climate is the first step in keeping feed in top condition. These considerations will help narrow down your options, while the next chapter addresses key considerations like material properties, budget, and storage duration.
