How to Grow Grass Hay
Do you want to grow your own hay for livestock or horses, but have no idea how to even begin the process? In this article, you will learn the basics of growing your own hay right in your backyard.
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Things You'll Need
- Hay seeds that thrive in your area
- Small piece of land
- Hoe
- Time
- Patience
Instructions
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How to Grow Grass Hay
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1
Wait until the last freeze of the winter has come and gone before you even begin to think about growing your own hay. Large-scale hay farmers always start to plant in the spring.
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2
Pick a spot of land you are not using and do not plan to use for a few months. If the land has grass on it, be sure to completely plow it until there is nothing but dirt showing. If you want, you can take some dirt to your farmers' bureau and have them test it to see if it has enough nutrients, or what nutrients you will need. Otherwise, just plow your land and get it ready for seeding.
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3
Plant the seeds by hand (if the area to be covered is small) or with a drill (if it is large). Be sure to cover the seeds completely with dirt; do not pat the dirt down. Keep the soil loose.
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4
Sit back and let nature take its course. Once the grass hay grows to about 2 feet tall, you can start cutting it, but no sooner.
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5
Leave the cut grass hay on the ground for at least 2 to 3 days, so that it has time to dry out. Once it has dried out, rake it up and contain it however you prefer.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wait until the last freeze before you begin seeding.
It sometimes takes up to three seasons to get the perfect crop of hay.
- Photo Credit Hampstead Heath
