Burlybale is our range of naturally good haylage.
Since 2009 we have been producing Burlybed bedding products and for sometime now the Burlybed team have wanted to provide our customers with the ultimate bedding and forage solution. Now we are able to.
We have sown specifically selected varieties of grass leys to ensure the best quality forage before processing and packaging the product here on our farm in North Cornwall. We are in control of the whole process from seed to stockist to stable.
The importance of fibre
We know that good quality forage is a key part of a horses diet. Forage (fibre) such as grass, hay or haylage should form the basis of any horses diet. Horses and their digestive systems have evolved to spend around 18 hours a day grazing with limited, short periods of fasting. These extended periods of grazing and chewing of long stemmed forage promotes saliva production which acts as a buffer to excessive gastric acid and takes longer than a concentrate feed to transit the digestive system aiding proper digestion, fermentation and taking on vital nutrients. This in turn supports a healthy gut and so a healthy horse.
What is haylage?
Haylage is a purpose made forage produced from a specialist grass seed mix. The purpose is to create a quality fibre substitute for grass, the horse’s natural fibre provider. The key difference between haylage, and hay for example, is the preservation process. Hay is cut later in the season and left to dry thoroughly whereas haylage is often cut earlier in the season and preserved through fermentation to ensure a higher moisture content, retention of nutritional values and minimal dust content.
There are 3 products in the Burlybale range that cater for a wide range of horses requirements from the hardy, good doers through to top level sports horses and breeding stock.
The Burlybale Range
Burlybale High Fibre is produced from a high quality mix of mature ryegrass and is ideal for horses in low to moderate work such as riding club, hacking out, horses at rest, native breeds and veterans. High Fibre provides condition without high energy levels.
Burlybale Pasture is produced from a high quality mix of specially selected native grass varieties which provide a soft texture. It is ideal for horses in moderate levels of work such as riding club and low level competition.
Burlybale Ryegrass is produced from a quality mix of specially chosen ryegrasses and is ideal for horses in moderate to high level work or with higher energy requirements such as breeding stock or those that need condition.
All of the Burlybale range is home produced to ensure good palatability. The bales come in sections for easy feeding, are packaged for ultimate freshness and are suitable for horses with dust allergies or respiratory problems. Our compact bales are easy to store and handle with packaging that is 100% recyclable.
Burlybale Haylage is sectioned for ease of feeding
The table below provides an easy comparison of the range to help you easily select the most suitable option for your horse.
Burlybale faq’s
Where can I buy Burlybale haylage?
Burlybale is available through our network of stockists. Find your nearest stockists here or contact us
How do I store Burlybale?
Ideally, Burlybale should be stored inside, however due to the weather proof packaging Burlybale can be stored outside away from direct sunlight. Do not puncture an unopened bag as this can potentially spoil the product and always protect from vermin.
Which haylage is best for my horse?
Take a look at our comparison chart (on the page above) to see which haylage would meet your needs. If you are looking for in depth nutrition advice for your horse, we recommend contacting an independent equine nutritionist.
There are some white spots on my haylage, is it safe to feed?
Sometimes due to the natural fermentation cycle, a white substance, often appearing as white spots, can appear. This is a harmless yeast which is not a cause for concern and if the haylage smells ok, the bag can be used.
How much do I feed?
Every horse needs fibre in their diet, as a rule a horse consumes between 1.5% to 2.5% of their bodyweight per day. The amount of haylage you should feed your horse depends on your horses size, workload, living environment, temperament and even their body condition, therefore they should be fed accordingly. To maintain body weight and support general work most horses are able to produce enough energy from their fibre intake, but should your horse be in harder and more consistent work then they may require an additional source of energy to help maintain their weight.
How long will a bale last?
Depending on the time of year we recommend that once a Burlybale bag has been opened that it is used within 3 – 8 days. (In summer months – Approximately 3 days and in winter up to 8 days)
Will my horse like Burlybale?
Burlybale products have been made with selected grass leys and seed mixes, together with a careful production process, the end result is sweet smelling, highly palatable forage that we have found even the most fussy eaters will enjoy.
Is Burlybale packaging recyclable?
Yes! We choose our packaging to be functional and durable to protect our products while they are our with our stockists and customers but we also consider the environmental impact. We use Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) which in simple terms is exactly the same as a supermarket bag for life. This plastic is 100%recyclable. Many local authorities accept LDPE as part of their recycling schemes so we always advise our customers to check with their local authority