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Over the past few months we have been covering the basics of hay production. We have already discussed mowing and tedding. In this blog we will discuss the raking process. Once your fields have cured, it’s time to rake. Though by this point in the process your sights are set on a field full of sweet-smelling bales, raking should never be overlooked in its importance to the final product. Raking done well can increase the quality of a bale while raking done poorly will surely decrease it. …

Last month we shared the first blog in a three part series answering the question, “Why buy your baler from us?”. That blog, which can be found here, discussed our obsession with quality. This month, we will give another reason why you should feel confident making a baler purchase from Tractor Tools Direct--we offer products with unique features not found on other brands. First off, our balers are not the same as others you may have seen. Yes, I know - when you first start researching mini …

April’s blog discussed the first step of the baling process--mowing. This month’s blog will give tips for the next step--tedding. What is a tedder? A tedder is an implement that is used to fluff and spread hay to decrease drying time. Tedding is typically done after the hay is mowed and before it is raked into windrows for baling. Many hay mowers, unless they have a built-in conditioning system like our Ibex TS51C and TM67C drum mowers, tend to windrow the cut crop into a tight pile that …

At Tractor Tools Direct we love hearing about our customers’ successes. Two years ago, Dave, located in MN, purchased a hay package from us containing an Ibex TX31 mini round baler, a belt rake, and a compact drum mower. Like so many of our customers, he wanted to bring haying independence to his small farm so that he would no longer be at the mercy of the farmer down the road who previously baled his fields. Having control of his own hay baling gives Dave more control …

The pasture has been cut, dried, and raked into windrows. It's hay day! Here are some tips to make baling day with your Ibex  TX31 Mini Round Baler run smoothly. Before heading to the field: Baling days are typically hot days, so dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing. Long sleeves and long pants are best for protecting your arms and legs from cuts and scratches when collecting bales. Be sure to bring along a large water jug so you can stay hydrated. Pack a tool kit with …