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The Smallholder’s Seasonal Journal: August Edition
Introduction
August is a month of transition on the smallholding. Grass growth slows, animals sense the coming change, and harvests reach their peak. It’s a time to balance gathering the fruits of summer with preparing for the cooler months ahead.
Grazing and Livestock Care
As pasture quality drops, keep an eye on animal condition. Rotate grazing to prevent bare patches and allow grass to recover. If you notice weight loss or animals spending more time at the fence, it may be time to supplement with extra feed or a mineral lick, such as the Horslyx Smallholder Block Mineralised Feed Lick.
Tip:
Walk your fields every few days. Look for signs of overgrazing, broken fencing, and areas where animals are congregating—these are often hotspots for parasites and mud as the weather shifts.
Walk your fields every few days. Look for signs of overgrazing, broken fencing, and areas where animals are congregating—these are often hotspots for parasites and mud as the weather shifts.
Poultry and Egg Production
Egg production may dip as the days shorten. Collect eggs more frequently to avoid spoilage, and keep bedding clean and dry. If birds are moulting, they’ll need a little extra nutrition and care. For a reliable top-up, see our poultry bedding range.
Tip:
Now’s a good time to give coops a thorough clean and check for red mite or other pests. Replace any worn bedding and consider adding a tonic or supplement if your flock looks tired.
Now’s a good time to give coops a thorough clean and check for red mite or other pests. Replace any worn bedding and consider adding a tonic or supplement if your flock looks tired.
Hygiene, Bedding & Pest Control
Warm, damp weather can mean a spike in flies and parasites. Keep bedding fresh, muck out regularly, and use yard tools to keep animal areas clean. Disinfect housing and equipment to reduce disease risk as autumn approaches. Stable & yard cleaners can help keep things under control.
Tip:
Store bedding and feed in a dry, rodent-proof place. Check for leaks or damage in your storage areas before the autumn rains arrive.
Store bedding and feed in a dry, rodent-proof place. Check for leaks or damage in your storage areas before the autumn rains arrive.
Fencing and Paddock Prep
Late summer is ideal for walking your boundaries. Repair or replace any damaged fencing, check gates, and plan any paddock moves before the ground gets wet. If you use electric fencing, test batteries and connections now to avoid problems later—electric fencing kits are available for quick fixes or expansions.
The August Checklist
- Rotate grazing and monitor animal condition
- Top up water daily and check for leaks
- Clean and disinfect housing and equipment
- Refresh bedding and store extra for autumn
- Check and repair fences and gates
- Collect eggs frequently and check for pests in coops
- Prepare for autumn feed and bedding needs
Where to Find Help
If you need specialist feed, bedding, fencing, or equipment, Chestnut Mill has a full range of trusted products for every type of livestock and poultry. Browse our collections or get in touch for advice tailored to your holding.