The recent challenges of this year’s wet weather has disrupted the planting schedules of arable farmers, resulting in diminished yields of cereal crops, and a reduced supply of straw.

The UK-wide shortage of straw has meant that farmers are seeking different bedding materials for bedding for their cattle, sheep and pigs.

Read more about the straw shortage below…

Best use of limited straw stocks

If you currently have a supply of straw, then it is important to assess your needs and plan for any deficit.

Maintain your stock by ensuring your straw remains dry. Do this by preventing water ingress, promoting ventilation, and using drier feeds. Be sure to scrape feed areas regularly, distribute bedding thinly and prioritise for critical areas.

Utilise fields for outdoor feeding and consider paddocks for loafing areas, mindful of soil impact.

Alternative Bedding Solutions

If you’re unable to secure your supply of straw bedding, you may be considering an alternative bedding material to meet the needs of your farm.

Our sawdust animal bedding, Finebed and Powderbed, have been a farmers favourite for years, offering quality and numerous benefits. Sawdust users enjoy high absorbency levels and an ultra-soft consistency, ensuring a dry and comfortable environment for your herd.

However, it’s important to find the best bedding for efficient farming and what will work with your system. If sawdust bedding is right for you, take a look at our Mixbed solution, which combines the benefits of sawdust, with the added comfort of shavings.

If you’d like to speak with our team, gives us a call on 01978 854666 for more information, or to discuss your bedding requirements.