FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DIY FODDER SYSTEMS
Why would I need a Hydroponic Fodder System?
With thousands of Hydroponic Fodder Systems operating world wide it has been proven the technology if used properly, will increase your livestock operations profitability.
How will a Hydroponic Fodder System increase my productivity?
Hydroponic Fodder System create many benefits on your farm by –
- Increasing your stocking levels
- Increased weight gains – shown in Cattle up to 2.4kg/day & Sheep up to 2.5kg/week.
- Increase herd health, fertility and milk production.
- Market Flexibility – buy & sell when it suits you.
- Improved meat quality = higher price/kg.
How do I use it?
You simply slide the feed out off the trays, rinse the tray, and reseed the trays. A system holds enough trays so your desired amount of feed is there waiting for you everyday.
What part do the animals eat?
The animals eat the whole lot of the sprouted tuft that is fed to them including the roots. Nothing is left in the feed trough.
What type of power is needed?
Generally only a single-phase 15amp power supply is needed.
What water source can I use?
Rain water, dam water and bore water are suitable to use. Hydroponic Fodder Systems can use any type of water to run the system provided it is clean or filtered. DIY Hydroponic Fodder Systems can supply filters and water treatment devices if it is necessary to treat your water.
How long does the barley fodder take to grow from the barley seed?
Generally it takes five days to grow from seeding to feed out. This can vary by 24 hours depending on how well you maintain a consistent temperature inside the system.
What size system do I need?
The system size depends on the type and size of the animals to be fed and what the system will be used for i.e. drought proofing, early weening or feeding stock horses etc. Contact DIY Fodder Systems to discuss your particular needs.
How much should I feed to cattle?
You can feed cattle as little as 1% of their body weight per day. DIY Fodder Systems have develop feeding programs to suit your application, from feed lotting and back grounding to breeding and show animals. All of this feeding information is available as part of the online course.
How much do horses need to eat?
Horses generally eat between 5-10kg of sprouts per day but this can vary depending on the horse’s daily workload.
What grains or seeds can I sprout?
You can sprout most grains and seeds even the sprouts you see in the supermarket such as alfalfa, sunflowers, mung beans, wheatgrass, fenugreek, onion, snow peas, etc.
