Hay question

[UKa]

How long can hay be stored for and fed? We are getting worried about this year's hay supply as no grass seems to grow in time. Thinking of buying in a lot already now for the start of winter. Is it possible to feed last year's hay in the following season?
Thanks

 

[amandap]

Doh, anticipated your question incorrectly. Yes you can feed it fine the following year provided it has been well made and stored.

 

[w1bbler]

I was always told not to feed current years hay until after Xmas, so yes if you've got good dry storage then stock up.

 

[Polos Mum]

I've fed hay that was 3 or 4 years old (farmer couldn't remember!) it was nicely stored and not dusty, it had lost some colour and didn't smell of anything (current years hay has a nice sweet smell) so I assume it had lost nutritional value (but others on here have said that isn't the case and I've never had old hay tested so I don't know)

I bought it as low nutrition high fiber for a fatty and it worked out really well for him - if it has lost feed value (as farmers who sell last years hay off cheap believe) you might need a touch more hard feed if your horse is in more than light work.

 

[WandaMare]

I always look for old hay for my good doer and lami pony. I am still feeding 2011 hay now and tbh it looks better than some of the 2012 stuff. You just have to check its not too dusty, but otherwise fine to feed.