AT Horse Sense we are big fans of soil testing. Soil testing is a pretty simple but valuable tool in managing our horse paddocks, yet its timing is just as important as the results themselves. Testing at the right point in the year ensures the information gathered is both accurate and useful.

The best time to soil test horse paddocks is late autumn or early spring, typically between October and March, when grass growth has slowed and nutrient uptake by plants is minimal. Testing at this stage provides a stable snapshot of soil pH and nutrient status before decisions are made on any liming, fertiliser application or reseeding. It also allows time to plan corrective action well in advance of the main growing season.

Soil testing during peak growth periods can be misleading, as actively growing grass removes nutrients from the soil, masking underlying deficiencies. Similarly, testing soon after fertiliser or slurry application should be avoided, as results may overestimate nutrient levels and lead to inappropriate management decisions.

For horse paddocks, soil testing every three to five years is usually sufficient, with more frequent testing advisable on heavily stocked land or paddocks that show persistent problems such as poor drainage, weed invasion or weak sward cover.

Understanding when to soil test helps yards make informed, cost-effective choices, supporting healthier pasture, safer grazing and more sustainable land management year after year.