Welcome! My name is Dawn and this is my agricultural blog. I'm new to farming so I'm still learning all I can about everything I need to know. When I got to the farmhouse, I got in touch with the folks who live in the neighbouring farms so I could ask them for advice. Thankfully, my neighbours were very kind. They took the time to explain the different types of equipment I needed to run a successful farming operation. I decided to write this blog so I could offer my best advice to others who are interested in the farming industry.
Self-Sufficient Living: 2 Vital Nutritional Supplements For Your Small Herd of Cows
For an increasing number of Australians, escaping the stress and expense of city life for a more sustainable life in the country is a much-desired choice. As property prices and the cost of living in urban areas continues to rise, the idea of a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle and financial freedom are very appealing options.
If you're planning this sort of lifestyle change, you most likely want to create a home that is less reliant on outside sources for your amenities and food. Along with some renewable energy, an independent water supply, some chickens and a productive vegetable patch, you may also be considering getting some cows.
A small herd of cows is a great idea for creating a more self-sufficient lifestyle. They can provide you with your daily milk supply and the ability to make your own dairy products. You'll also have an abundant source of beef, which you can eat yourself and trade with other smallholders for things you don't grow or farm yourself.
If you're planning to have a small herd of cows, understanding how important nutrition is for their health, milk production and the quality of their meat is essential. As well as grass, hay and an appropriate feed mix, here are two things you'll need to keep them healthy and happy.
1. Molasses
Molasses is a must-have feed supplement when you're keeping cows. This rich, sugary liquid is an inexpensive way to increase the calorie intake of your cows and provide them with many vital nutrients. It's also excellent to have on hand during times of drought or when food is scarce because it's a very good source of energy.
Molasses needs to be stored in a dedicated molasses tank. They are similar in appearance to rainwater collection tank, but they are made with much thicker material to safely hold the dense and heavy molasses. They also need to be completely airtight to prevent insects from invading the tempting sweetness.
2. Salt licks
Salt licks are small, solid blocks that your cows can lick to access the nutrients within it. Salt lick is actually a bit of a misnomer because they contain a great deal more than just salt. A good-quality salt lick will also contain protein and vital minerals, such as phosphorus and magnesium. Some also contain small amounts of sulphur, which can help to deter external parasites.
Salt licks are weather resistant, so they won't dissolve in the rain without the abrasive pressure of a cow's tongue. Cows have excellent instinctive knowledge of how much of the salt lick they need to keep their nutritional balanced. You may find that they use the salt lick more when you initially introduce it to your cows as they redress any nutritional deficiencies they may have.