AS summer draws closer it is worth taking the time to get your grassland in order to help keep it in the best condition possible.
We have compiled a simple list of things you can do to maintain good grassland management.
Pick up droppings from the field. This is a good practice to get into, as it helps to prevent paddocks from becoming ‘horse-sick’ and also helps to prevent the spread of worms. Harrow and roll your paddocks. Horses can do plenty of damage to fields and they can quickly become very poached, especially if they have been grazed over the winter and possibly over-stocked. Recent rain followed by sunshine means most fields are in an ideal condition to be harrowed and rolled. Plan for the summer. Set out a plan for you grassland management for the months ahead. Are you planning on cutting hay or silage? How many horses do you plan on having grazing the land? Will there be any other stock on the land? By establishing you need from the land you will be able to plan accordingly. Keep in mind that mixed grazing can work very well and whenever possible try to gives paddocks a rest. Should you start strip grazing your paddocks? This can work well if you have limited grass. Each strip gets a break from the horses grazing for a certain period and ensures your horses always have access to adequate grazing. This is also handy if you have an abundance of grass and you want to stop your horse from over-eating.
Clean out all water troughs and check that they are working correctly. Another advantage to the dry weather is it will be easy to spot any leaks around water troughs.Clean up around gates, if you can rest your paddock take the time to replant around gateways and any areas which may have become bare over the winter.