Ask the supplier if the hay has been stored for at least a month - eliminates germination.
You can put it under a tarp when you get it home otherwise, but first reach into the centre to check for any moisture, which is an indication of badly stored or newly harvested grass...just watch out for the little mouse or black snake that enjoys the warmth of fresh hay :-) The amount of blackies i've encountered while bailing are many.
One the other side of the coin, shold you pick up poorly compacted or old bails, they may not last the lenth of potato season or could let in mildew and ruin your crop.
L
I like this hay bail idea. Its also a good way to section and border out an above grround garden bed - fill the void with soil after placing newsp[aper on the ground to kill the grass - wallah, instant raised garden bed.
