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How long do chicks need heat?

6:30pm Monday 2nd July 2012

Until they are feathered enough to withstand the climate. Gradually raise the heat lamp, checking all the time that they are not huddling under it (too cold). Turn it off on warm days and then on warm days and nights until finally you transfer the chicks to a sheltered and safe house and run, draught free but well ventilated. Continue to check they are not huddling. Remember ducklings too will need heat when they are in down (yellow and fluffy).

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When is the best time to check the power in your fence?

2:20pm Friday 29th June 2012

You may not like it but the best time to check an electric fence is when it is raining!

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Do I need a cockerel for my hens to lay eggs?

9:38pm Monday 25th June 2012

No, you don't, your hens will lay regardless of whether the eggs are fertile or not. If you don't breed and you want to dispense with noisy crowing, then don't have a cockerel. It's particularly unnecessary to have a cockerel if you are keeping hybrid hens for laying.

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British Asparagus Festival Cancelled Due To Lack Of Early Asparagus

12:55pm Thursday 3rd May 2012

This weekend’s (6 and 7 May) British Asparagus Festival has been cancelled due to a severe shortage of asparagus being available. The incessant rain and floods has had a double whammy on Worcestershire’s quirky festival that normally sees thousands descending on the Vale of Evesham over the festival period.

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Pork before piglets

11:25am Wednesday 18th April 2012

Q/ I've never kept pigs but I'd like to get a sow and breed some piglets. How do I get a sow?

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Mangelwurzels?

11:23am Wednesday 18th April 2012

Q/ Do Mangelwurzels really exist and can you still buy the seed?

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