Producing high-quality bales requires more than just the right machinery. Avoid these common baling mistakes to protect your feed and get the best results.
1. Baling at the Wrong Moisture Level
Moisture levels directly impact fodder quality. If hay is too wet, it can lead to mould and spoilage. If too dry, excessive leaf loss reduces nutritional value.
✅ Ideal moisture for hay: 15-18%
✅ Ideal moisture for silage: 40-60%
2. Using Low-Quality Twine or Netwrap
Cheap or inconsistent netwrap and twine can lead to bales that fall apart during transport and storage. Always invest in high-quality products designed for strong, uniform wrapping.
3. Overloading the Baler
Trying to increase efficiency by pushing your baler too hard can lead to inconsistent bales, premature wear on equipment, and extra downtime for repairs.
✅ Follow manufacturer recommendations for bale density and size
✅ Regularly check baler settings for optimal performance
4. Not Wrapping Silage Bales Quickly
Silage bales should be wrapped as soon as possible after baling to prevent oxygen exposure and fermentation delays. Delayed wrapping leads to spoilage and nutrient loss.
✅ Wrap within 2-4 hours of baling for best results
5. Storing Bales Incorrectly
Even perfectly made bales can deteriorate if stored incorrectly. Ensure hay bales are kept off the ground and stacked in a well-ventilated, covered area. Silage bales should be stored on a firm surface with no sharp objects that could puncture the wrap.
Get the Best Results with Donaghys Crop
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you create high-quality, nutritious fodder. Donaghys Crop provides premium baling twine, netwrap, and silage film to help farmers and contractors achieve top-tier results.
