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The Smallholder's Seasonal Journal: June Edition
Introduction
Welcome to the June edition of "The Smallholder's Seasonal Journal." June is the gateway to summer, bringing the longest days of the year and the first real test of your smallholding’s preparations. This month is all about managing growth, making the most of the sunshine, and staying ahead of the challenges that summer can bring.
Key Smallholder Tasks for June in the UK
1. Haymaking and Forage Management
June often marks the start of haymaking. Timing is crucial—cut too early and yields suffer, cut too late and quality drops.
June often marks the start of haymaking. Timing is crucial—cut too early and yields suffer, cut too late and quality drops.
- Monitor weather forecasts to plan your first cut
- Turn and dry hay thoroughly to avoid mould
- Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated area to preserve quality
- Consider supplementing with Fearns Farm Premium Hay if your own supply is low
2. Summer Grazing Management
With lush pastures, livestock can thrive—but vigilance is needed:
With lush pastures, livestock can thrive—but vigilance is needed:
- Rotate grazing areas to prevent overgrazing and allow regrowth
- Watch for signs of laminitis in ponies and sheep from rich grass
- Ensure all animals have constant access to fresh water (our range of troughs and automatic waterers can help)
- Provide shelter from sun and sudden summer storms
3. Fly and Parasite Control
Warm weather brings an uptick in flies and parasites:
Warm weather brings an uptick in flies and parasites:
- Use fly rugs, masks, and repellents for horses and cattle
- Maintain clean bedding and muck out regularly to reduce breeding grounds
- Review and update worming plans for all livestock; our livestock health range includes trusted solutions
4. Poultry and Small Animal Care
- Chickens and other poultry may go broody—collect eggs regularly and provide shaded dust baths
- Check all housing for adequate ventilation
- Protect feed from vermin and spoilage with secure storage bins
- Choose the right poultry feed to support laying through summer
5. Rabbits and Small Animals:
- Heygates Rabbit Choice Pellets (20kg, £16.03) for rabbits and small animals
- Provide plenty of quality hay and fresh bedding to keep pets comfortable in warmer weather
6. Garden and Orchard Tasks
- Water early in the morning or late evening to minimise evaporation
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Support heavy crops (tomatoes, beans, fruit) with stakes or cages
- Harvest early crops and sow late summer vegetables like carrots and beetroot
7. Wildlife and Biodiversity
- Top up bird baths and keep wildlife water sources clean
- Continue to leave wild areas unmown for pollinators
- Install insect hotels and hedgehog houses to support beneficial wildlife
Essential Chestnut Mill Products for June
For Haymaking & Feed Storage:
- Fearns Farm Premium Hay (10.5kg, £11.17) for when your own supply is low
- Secure feed bins and hay racks to keep forage fresh and tidy
For Grazing & Livestock Health:
- Dallas Keith Equine Flexi Trug Essential Mineral Lick (12.5kg, £28.05)
- Water troughs and automatic drinkers for all species
- Fly control products (rugs, sprays, masks)
For Poultry:
- A full range of poultry feeds to support laying through summer
- Secure, ventilated coops and poultry fencing
For Rabbits and Small Animals:
- Heygates Rabbit Choice Pellets (20kg, £16.03) for rabbits and small animals
- Quality hay and fresh bedding to keep pets comfortable in warmer weather
For Gardening:
- Watering cans, hoses, and irrigation systems
- Mulch mats and plant supports
- Lightweight hand tools for efficient weeding and harvesting
For Wildlife:
- Wildlife World bee and insect houses
- Bird feeders and baths
Seasonal Spotlight: Coping with Heatwaves
Hot spells can arrive suddenly in June. Here’s how to keep animals and crops healthy:
- Provide extra shade and ventilation for all livestock and pets
- Increase frequency of water checks—automatic systems can be a game changer
- For horses, refer to our latest blog: How to Keep Your Horse Hydrated and Healthy in a Heatwave
- Move vulnerable animals (e.g., rabbits, guinea pigs) out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day
Looking Ahead: What to Prepare for July
- Plan for second hay cuts and silage if required
- Monitor for drought and adjust grazing or irrigation accordingly
- Prepare for summer shows and events—check all equipment and transport is in order
- Continue with pest and weed control as growth peaks
Conclusion
June is a month of action and vigilance on the smallholding. By staying on top of grazing, haymaking, and animal care, you’ll set the stage for a productive and enjoyable summer. At Chestnut Mill, we’re here to support your seasonal needs with trusted products, helpful guides, and friendly advice.
Are there specific tasks or challenges you’d like us to cover in future editions? We’d love to hear your feedback and suggestions!