"The bale is initially treated with a nitrogen ... No, you should avoid using hay instead of straw. Wheat straw is courser than hay, which could decompose quickly in some climates, says Burgess.

According to Farm to Stable, seller of straw bales on Amazon, a 4-pound wheat straw bale will cover approximately 6 to 8 square feet, 2 inches deep. Q. How long do straw bales last outside?