Alfalfa bales - how long can I store them?

Question

What is the best way to store them and how long can they last and still be relatively high quality? Should they be stored in an indoor environment (closed shed or garage) or do they last longer where there is alot of air flow? I'm talking about the typical rectangle bale you can pick up at any feed store. And I'm most concerned about how long I can store them. Thank you.

Answer 1

Keep it inside. Do not store on concrete, this can cause mold and water to get in the hay. Store on wood, preferably off the ground, 2*4s can be used to put the hay on. The edges of the hay may go yellow if it is stored for a long time. It is a very small amount of the bale. You should keep the bale in tact (don't split it) until you are ready to use it.

I buy hay by the bale for my rabbits. I store the hay I am not using in the garage. The bale that is being used is put in a giant Rubbermaid bin. Keep the lid off to allow air circulation.

Answer 2

Well lots of people buy there hay in bulk from a "farmer."  You can usually only do this once a year, b/c hay is only cut in the summer time.  I know tons of people incuding myself who buy 300 or soo bales in July-ish.  We keep our hay all year long, till Julyish.  Hay should be kept indoors, b/c the rain/snow/humidity can spoil it.  We keep ours inside a barn with two open stall doors/ with ari flow.  Hay can keep for a long time indoors, i wouldn't be worried about it.