Big bale haylage

Many feed merchants offer large-baled, locally-produced farm haylage that’s unbranded. Big-bale haylage is often made from older pasture, which may previously have been grazed. As with hay, previously grazed pasture tends to be perennial, containing weeds that may be unpalatable for horses. After cutting, wilting and baling, the bales of haylage are wrapped to exclude air. The quality, nutritional content, dry matter and acidity may all be variable. As with any bagged forage, if it’s allowed to stand open for too long, or if the bales are punctured, the haylage may become contaminated. PROS More palatable than hay Less likely to be dusty May have nutritional analysis, depending on the source CONS Can go off if left standing open for too long Haylage from a punctured bale can be dangerous if fed Can be expensive Unlikely to be guaranteed May contain chemical additives, inoculants and/or mould inhibitors Higher sugar content than bagged forage, so unsuitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. Big bales can be difficult to handle