As temperatures drop and we move into late fall and early winter, it is essential to support your pasture for robust growth next spring. Doing these three things will improve pasture grass.
1. Put Horses On A Dry Lot: Pastures need time to rest and recover. Move horses to a dry lot, or sacrifice pasture during the fall and winter months. Pulling horses allows the grass’s roots to strengthen, ensuring healthy growth next spring.
2. Manage Manure: Remove manure from pastures. If this is not possible, break up the waste with a harrow and allow the field to sit over winter. Parasites will die, leaving a healthier pasture come spring.
3. Groom Muddy Areas: Before the spring rains hits, making a muddy mess, treat mud prone areas: overseed bare spots, add gravel or mats to muddy areas near gates or water troughs, and lay over-size bark mulch (also known as play-ground mulch) along well-worn paths.