One of the things we’ve been experimenting with lately here in Vermont is drying small amounts of hay for the rabbits using simple mesh drying screens instead of large traditional equipment. Since we don’t have open hay fields, barns full of machinery, or acres of storage space, we’ve been trying to figure out what works for a smaller homestead setup.
So far, we’re learning that you don’t necessarily need a huge operation to start understanding the basics of haymaking. You just need a willingness to experiment, pay attention to the weather, and work with the space you have.
This week we spread fresh-cut grass across large mesh screens to allow airflow underneath while the sun and breeze helped dry everything out naturally. The screens turned out to be incredibly helpful because they kept the grass elevated off the wet ground and allowed moisture to escape more evenly.
A few things we noticed right away:
Thin Layers Dry Better
The biggest mistake is piling grass too thick. Thin, loose layers dry much faster and reduce the chance of heating or mold. When the grass is spread evenly, airflow becomes your best friend.
Timing Matters More Than Quantity
In a small-space setup, it’s actually easier to work in small batches. Instead of trying to process huge amounts all at once, we’re learning to pay attention to:
- sunny afternoons
- humidity levels
- evening moisture
- rain chances
Once evening dampness starts returning, it’s important to gather everything back up or move it under cover.
Storage Matters
After drying, we bagged some of the hay for temporary storage and tested a little with the rabbits right away. They were immediately interested in it, which was encouraging. Even small amounts feel rewarding because it starts creating a cycle:
yard growth → drying → feed → manure → garden soil
That’s the kind of system we’re trying to slowly build over time.
Small Scale Still Counts
I think sometimes people assume homesteading only “counts” if you’re producing huge quantities. But there’s real value in learning these skills on a smaller level first. Drying even a little hay teaches you:
- moisture management
- timing
- storage
- animal preferences
- weather awareness
- workflow organization
And honestly, it reconnects you to seasonal rhythms in a way modern life often doesn’t.
Our Biggest Lesson So Far
The biggest lesson may simply be this:
start with what you have.
Our setup is still evolving. We’re working around sheds, chickens, rabbits, limited space, changing weather, and regular jobs. Some days feel organized and productive, while others feel like constant adjustment. But little by little, the systems improve.
Tonight after gathering the hay, I cleaned the chicken coop, added fresh shavings, fed the rabbits, and put the drying screens away for the evening. Nothing dramatic — just another steady evening of learning how to make a small homestead work a little better.
And honestly, that feels like progress.