- Tall Fescue: A drought-resistant grass that holds up well under heavy grazing, but certain endophyte-free strains should be used to prevent potential health issues for horses.
- Orchardgrass: A high-quality forage grass that grows quickly and is highly digestible for horses. - Perennial Ryegrass: Varieties like Italian ryegrass offer quick growth and good nutrition. It is preferred for its ability to establish rapidly.
- pH Levels: Ideally, pasture soils should have a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Lime can be added to soils that are too acidic. - Nutrient Levels: Soil fertility should be tested regularly for nutrients. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels are critical for grass growth.
Perennial ryegrass and annual ryegrass are popular for their rapid growth and palatability. Perennial grasses establish quickly and can withstand heavy grazing, while annual ryegrass offers a temporary solution for fast pasture cover.
For horse pastures, tall fescue is a resilient option, enduring cold climates and offering year-round growth. However, it's essential to choose endophyte-free fescue seeds to prevent potential health risks to pregnant mares.
For horse pastures, tall fescue is a resilient option, enduring cold climates and offering year-round growth. However, it's essential to choose endophyte-free fescue seeds to prevent potential health risks to pregnant mares.
In warmer regions, Bermuda grass is a good choice due to its tolerance to heat and drought. It also provides a durable ground cover that withstands the stress from horse hooves.
It’s often beneficial to use a mixture of seeds to create a robust and diverse pasture. Mixed seed can be tailored to region and soil type, offering a balance of growth patterns and nutritional benefits.