|
I have a few hundred willow tree starts (you'll also find them for sale on the garden section of the site). But I have a particular collection just for goat feed. These particular willow trees are native to Alaska and grow remarkably fast. Within two years most will be 7 to 10 feet in height. And that's why they make such great feed for goats. One adult tree lasts approximately 1 week with 2 to 3 goats. In the summer time the leaves and fresh stems will be eaten. In winter the bark and branches can be eaten. The trees I raise are shipped approximately 4" to 10" in height. They should not be planted in your goat's enclosure, but rather in a separate area. If they are planted with the goats, the goats will eat the seedlings before they have a chance to grow. If planted in a different area the willow can grow approximately 3 to 5 feet in the first summer. They can be harvested year round for fresh food. If you snip just the branches off for food, the tree itself will regrow every year to produce another batch of food for the goats. My trees are naturally harvested and 100% organically grown. Willow is also a safe snack for rabbits, domestic birds, small pets (hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs), and chinchillas. They can also be fed to llamas. The starts cost $2.00 each, but if ordered with a bulk of 100 or more they will only cost $1.00 each. Willow can be grown within 6 inches of one another, and do just fine in all Alaskan climates. Shipping is free on orders over 20. Willow are a great alternative food source for goat owners in Alaska. They provide all of the nutrients needed in order for your goats to stay physically healthy. But I do recommend supplementing this food with weekly snacks such as alfalfa, timothy hay, fresh vegetables, and other woods- like apple and maple. Variety in diet can keep your goat mentally stimulated and prevent stress and boredom. Orders ship any time you'd like between April and August. Preordering is available and I can take orders ahead of time. The sketch attached to this ad shows a full grown summer-foliage willow tree. NOTE: These are NOT weeping willow, but a natural Alaskan Bog Willow.
|
