Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Straightalfalfaistoorichformosthorses,andatfullbloomtheseplantsarepastideal
cutting time.
Orchard grass produces excellent-quality forage but will not tolerate drought, wet, or
alkaline soil. If irrigation water is not available for the entire season, smooth brome and
wheatgrass can be used. Bermuda grass (in the South) and tall fescue (in the North and
South) resist trampling, so are good varieties for “exercise” pastures.
Legumes such as alfalfa, clover, and bird's-foot trefoil are more nutritious and don't re-
quire nitrogen fertilizer, but they are less hardy and impractical when used alone for pas-
ture. With pasture mixes, plants mature at different times and exhibit a range of abilities to
withstand stresses such as drought, flood, heat, and cold. If a blend of grasses and alfalfa (or
other legume) is preferred, the legume should not exceed 25 percent of the mix for horses.
