What Makes a Good Horse Pasture? 

The pasture needs of a horse differ from those of other types of livestock. Ideal equine pastures are nutritionally balanced, productive, palatable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing.

A nutritionally balanced pasture plays a vital role in the overall health of the horse. Pasture comprises a large part of the horse’s diet and therefore needs to provide as much quality nutrition as possible. Seeding and maintaining desirable species aid in providing balanced nutrition for the horse. These desirable species include cool-season grasses such as bluegrass, orchardgrass, and novel tall fescue.

Soil productivity is the foundation of any quality forage system. A productive pasture produces the quantity of forage to support the horses in the field and reduces hay costs by extending grazing through the year. These pastures will also supply quality nutrition within those grasses. The only way to assess the pH and nutrient requirements of a field is through soil testing. The use of lime and fertilizer will correct deficiencies in the field and promote productivity by maintaining adequate pH and nutrient levels.

Horses are selective grazers and typically gravitate towards the most palatable forage. Weedy grasses and other space-occupying species take away from the availability of desirable grasses, minimizing the grazing acreage available. Maintaining a quality stand of grass ensures more uniform grazing of the field. Frequent mowing and proper fertilization also promote palatability in pastures.

Providing a safe field for the horse is crucial, not only in terms of soundness but also in terms of overall wellbeing. Maintaining a thick stand of grass minimizes mud and provides cushion, which reduces the risk of limb injury. In addition, the forage composition of a field plays a role in the overall safety of the animal. Consumption of certain species of weeds and grasses can lead to illness and/or reproductive issues. Ensuring enough safe forage is available helps mitigate this risk.

Although horse pastures are not oversized lawns, they represent significant investment and therefore should be aesthetically pleasing. A uniform stand of cool-season grasses retains color for most of the year, while weedy and warm-season grasses turn brown through the autumn and winter months.

All of these components can be improved over time with appropriate planning and implementation. An agronomist can assist in management decisions to help you meet your goals.

Seasonal Tip:  
Plan to fertilize this fall after a killing frost. Remember to base your fertilizer on soil test results.