alfalfa

[swampwright]

So this next year I plan on planting approx. four acres of alfalfa. I have everything for planting I believe set up. Once I get it planted and growing i want to find someone to bale it. The problem is I don't know what to charge. I was thinking if they bale it just give me 2-3 dollars a bale. Does this seem fair? Thanks

 

[nannyslayer]

Hell no that isn't fair to you, unless your talking small square bales. If you have a good, pure stand of alfalfa, you can sell them for around 85 bucks a large round bale right now, and it will be even higher come winter. Lets say they will mow, rake, and bale it for 20 bucks a bale, and if it's out of their way, knock another 10 bucks off, they should be paying you about 45 bucks a bale.

But if your doing small square's, then yes, about 3 bucks would be what they should pay you.

 

[turkeyriver]

Pricing hay that way is tough. How big are the bales? Small squares can vary tremendously in size and weight, as can large round bales. You may have trouble getting a large dairy farmer to bother with four acres at any price. If you are in a strong horse area, small squares of premium alfalfa could be worth 5 bucks a bale. I'd say you are at the mercy of whoever you can get to come and do the work. Remember, bugs love to eat alfalfa, more than clover, so be prepared to spray for them a couple times a year.

 

[hillrunner]

You may be lucky enough to get someone to do a 50/50 share crop with you. For only 4 acres, You'll probably have to sweeten the deal some to get them to come in. It will really help if you already have a relationship with someone who has the equipment.