Harvest is getting off to a good start. So think about stocking up with straw for the winter. Those of you with some space in a barn should really be thinking of buying in now, it will only get more expensive closer to the winter if you don’t.
Sheep, have close look at your ewes. Check for bad eyes, lumpy udders and have a good culling session. These can then be replaced during September into October.
Hens, don’t panic if your hens start to slow down on the number of eggs lay. This is often a reaction to the warmer days. When September and October arrives they will pick up again. During the next few weeks I would recommend that you reduce their food by a few grammes. This will avoid the hens becoming what I call hot… If they get a little fatty their body temperature will rise slightly, causing the hen to go broody! So cutting back the food reduces the risk broody hens.
Veg, lots of watering, the best time to do this is in the evening. The roots get the best chance to absorb the moisture and put it into action. If you are going on holiday for a few days, cover the ground up with shredded paper, wool or mulch. This will help to reduce the evaporation from the soil, cutting down on the amount of work for your house sitter.
Pigs, make sure you have given them a wallow! I can promise you that you will never want to deal with a sun burnt pig… The mud they roll around in actually acts as a sun barrier cream.