Why do the bales of hay come in different shapes?

Since a couple of years, the production of hay has changed drastically. Its nutritional value has increased, and there are loads of changes made in the way it is baled. In the 50s and 60s, usually, the bales were square and weighed around 50-60 pounds. They were shaped in such a manner that it could be stacked in a barn until needed.

Later in the 70s, there was an invention of the new machine which helped in making hay. There were huge large balers came because of which most of the bales of hay started coming in round shape. These bales can weigh up to 800-1500 pounds.

Farmers cultivate hay in an array of shapes and sizes, and it solely depends upon the type of equipment they buy for bailing. Older machinery and technique usually creates rectangular bales. But, recently as per new techniques, they are mostly seen in round shape.

This is an important factor for farmers as to which machinery or shape to opt for. Here are a few differences between the two:

• Farm Size- Square bales are better for smaller farms as they are lightweight and can be easily moved manually. Plus they can also be transported in the back of a small-sized truck. Larger bales are recommended for the larger operation which needs to feed more often.
• Workforce- Square balers require a lot of manpower because you need to dry them for a long period then cut it and then comes bailing. Plus you need a lot of workers to pick up, stack and transport the bales. But, large bales need fewer people as it cutting and stacking take less time. Plus, it can be transported by 1 person easily because of its shape.
• Economical- As there is less workforce required in round bales they are comparatively cheaper, furthermore, their transportation cost is also less
• Weather- Hay which is exposed to rain or moisture can be dangerous for animals to consume as it becomes mouldy. Therefore, if the weather is moist or there is too much rain, then square bales are preferred.
• Storage-If you store it for a longer period its nutrition value decreases. They should not be kept for more than a year. Therefore, square bales are better of you to need to consume them quickly. Round bales are preferred for long term storage as they are packed more densely, which makes them less risky for exposure to the moisture.

If the hay is stored and baled properly, then it can last for a longer period without getting spoiled or its quality getting degraded. But, there are a lot of factors that a person should consider before choosing any shape or type of bales as it can help save money, increase nutrition value, reduces waste and lessens the risk of hay getting spoiled.