NH Homesteader's journal

[NH Homesteader]

I've been thinking a lot and am really thinking I need to change how we're feeding here. The pigs eating primarily grass and hay is a good start. I want to go as organic as possible. The poultry is the biggest issue expense wise, so getting rid of the turkeys might be a good time to do it.

Off to research and crunch numbers...

 

[frustratedearthmother]

Organic feed is extremely cost prohibitive here. I want to get my critter numbers low enough that my pasture can mostly sustain them. I really need to move out the mini-horses - they are major grass consumers. Grrrrr...so much to do.

 

[NH Homesteader]

I just found a dairy feed that's a tolerable price. Alfalfa pellets aren't too horrid. Organic chicken feed is crazy though. Looking at all options including sprouting, fermenting (not for goats), or anything I haven't thought of! Also looking for farmers with barley, oats or anything I can make my own feed mix with. Just seeing what's out there!

 

[frustratedearthmother]

Yes - organic chicken feed is mucho crazy! I've tried sprouting and fermenting and it's all good - just too time consuming for me and too hot this time of year. Fermented feed will mold in a half day here and the sprouts don't do well in our heat either. But, I'll bet your climate is better for both!

 

[NH Homesteader]

I imagine it is! I know a guy who sprouts for his AGH... Gotta go read his directions again ...

 

[baymule]

We go to TSC for their all purpose pellets and sheep mineral for the sheep. We go to a feed store in Lindale for chicken feed and dog food. Sometimes we get the dog food at Atwoods in Tyler if we're going there because it is a dollar or two cheaper. We go to Sulphur Springs (45 minutes away) for horse feed, which we also give to the pigs. I have used this horse feed for years, have 2 seniors and I'm not about to switch. Plus, it is $8.10 a 50# bag and that is why I feed it to the pigs too, can't buy pig feed that cheap. Why can't ONE feed store have all that I want?

 

[baymule]

Organic feed is off the charts. It is double and triple the price of regular feed. I would love to "grass feed" but we are still trying to get pasture to grow. Those of you that have established pasture are blessed!

 

[frustratedearthmother]

I have established weeds lol! But, I do have pretty good Bermuda that comes in when it's not a hunnert degrees outside and has too many mouths chewing on it. Gonna work on remedying that situation...

 

[NH Homesteader]

Stupid phone. I replied and it disappeared. Anyway, pasture, no. Brush, weeds, trees? Yup. Goats are better for my land, good thing I love them!

 

[frustratedearthmother]

I've always wanted to subdivide my pasture so I could rotate. Add it to the "someday" list...