Sprouts, grain, hay...

WildWolf · Jun 21, 2012

I'm still trying to sort out how to feed the rabbits naturally in the winter. And the summer, for that matter. So, if I were to grow alfalfa in my garden, during the spring, summer, and fall I could harvest it for hay. If I'm growing alfalfa or any type of grain inside- should I harvest sprouts only or see if they will grow bigger? What size do you harvest sprouts? And if I'm growing grains in my garden, should I dry the harvested stems and use them for hay? If I grow grains and alfalfa in the rabbits' run, along with other plants, should I harvest it or let the bunnies graze, or possible to do both? I'm going to try all those different ways, but I want to see what you guys think. Thanks!

MaggieJ · Jun 21, 2012

How many rabbits do you have? I have only a small rabbitry but we use about twenty square bales of hay a year. Can you grow enough?

An alfalfa patch is a great idea for fresh cutting and for harvesting seeds for sprouting, however. You can cut grain while green for hay or later for the grain and have the straw for bedding.

I can't advise on what might work well in North Carolina... Your climate is so different from ours. But we have quite a few members from your neck of the woods, so perhaps they will chime in on this subject.

WildWolf · Jun 21, 2012

Thanks. I have 2 does, and will hopefully get a buck and maybe another doe. I think I'm going to try all ways- hay, straw, multiple cuttings, grazing, sprouts- all of it. I'd just like to hear what people prefer.

Joe n TN · Jun 22, 2012

I posted a lengthy post about growing Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS). I harvest them when the second set of leaves just start budding out.

My intention is to feed the sprouts (micro greens) during the winter a lot when garden trimmings are not around to keep everyone healthy and producing at optimal levels.

Joe