Can I wrap dry has as an alternative to inside storage?
Some producers who have limited inside space for storing dry hay rolls have successfully wrapped dry hay for outside storage. Typically only enough plastic to cover the bale is needed, usually 2 layers with about a 20% overlap at the edges. Black plastic is recommended rather than white plastic since it is cheaper, draws heat, and helps to evaporate condensation within the bale. At the bottom, between each bale, make a vertical cut to allow for ventilation between bales. A 1-2 inch layer of white mold may develop on the outside of each bale, but any losses associated would be far less than unwrapped outside stored hay. Wrapping hay that is higher in moisture than about 20% will mold more significantly.