HAY PRODUCTION IN GHANA FOR LIVESTOCK.
In Ghana, hay is becoming increasingly important as livestock farming grows. Especially during the dry season when fresh grass is scarce, having a reliable supply of quality hay can be a game-changer.
This guide will walk you through how to grow, cut, dry, and store hay properly, while recommending the best plants used for haymaking in Ghana, with their local Twi names for easy identification.
What Is Hay?
Hay is simply dried grass or legumes used to feed animals like goats, sheep, cattle, and rabbits. Good hay is green, soft, and rich in nutrients, and it can be stored for months without going bad.
Best Grasses for Hay in Ghana (With Twi Names)
- Guinea Grass (Panicum maximum) – Twi: Nkyereɛ
- High in protein and ideal for most types of livestock.
- Grows well in Ghana’s tropical climate.
- Signal Grass (Brachiaria decumbens) – Twi: Burodɔ brɔmɔ (grass that lies flat)
- Resistant to drought and has excellent regrowth after cutting.
- Best for cattle and goats.
- Stylo (Stylosanthes guianensis) – Twi: Ntotoso brɔmɔ
- A leguminous plant that adds nitrogen to the soil and is very palatable to animals.
- Can be mixed with grasses for a more nutritious hay.
How to Grow Hay Plants
- Choose a fertile plot with good drainage.
- Clear and till the land, and remove weeds.
- Sow seeds or transplant cuttings during the rainy season for best results.
- Apply compost or organic manure to boost growth.
- Avoid using heavy chemicals—organic methods keep the hay safe for animals.
How to Harvest Hay
- Harvest when grasses are at 50–70% maturity—not too young or too old.
- Use a cutlass or sickle to cut the grass early in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Don’t wait until the grass flowers fully—it loses nutritional value by then.
How to Dry Hay Properly in Ghana
- Spread the cut grass on clean ground or mats under full sunlight.
- Turn the grass every 4–6 hours for even drying.
- Drying usually takes 2–3 days, depending on the weather.
- Hay is ready when it's dry, greenish, and makes a crunchy sound when bent.
How to Store Hay
- Bundle or bale the dried hay using twine or ropes.
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated shed away from rain and moisture.
- Stack bales off the ground on wooden pallets or rubber sheets.
- Avoid storing near cooking areas or flames—hay is highly flammable.
- Keep hay protected from rodents and insects using natural repellents like neem leaves.
Bonus Tips
- You can mix different plants like Guinea Grass and Stylo to create multi-nutrient hay.
- Adding a small amount of salt or molasses can encourage animals to eat more hay during the dry season.
- Always check for mould before feeding—bad hay can harm your animals.
Conclusion
Producing and storing hay in Ghana is both cost-effective and essential for any serious livestock farmer.
By using the right plants like Nkyereɛ (Guinea Grass) and following proper drying and storage methods, you can ensure your animals have food all year long, especially during the lean season.
Start today and make hay while the sun shines—literally!
Visit www.agricgate.farm to start your journey.
