Haylage - How long after making to be able to use

[kenseypark]

Well, we finally cut the 4 acre field for hay last Thursday, however with the bad weather coming in Saturday night thru Sunday, it HAD to be baled on Saturday. We'd decided if it was still a bit green it would be best to wrap it and make dry haylage rather than make 'manky' hay. The balers turned up and said it could have done with another good day to make hay, but it was brilliant haylage. This is for my miniature horses and the sheep, so feed value doesn't have to be high. I think haylage made in May/June is much higher in feed value than cut as late as now, and if it was baled/wrapped a day before (ie,more moisture) it would have fermented and cured and been higher in proteins/sugars. Any one know how long after baling/wrapping before i can safely use it for the horses/sheep please? (sheep won't need it until they are in for lambing in March!!)

[Broomcroft]

Found this but can't find any times http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/ansci/dairy/as1252w.htm.

I've always thought about 6 weeks but never used it that early I have to say.

[Saffy]

I was told at least 6 weeks for horse and then in small amounts at first.

Stephanie