Pasture Spraying
Having a beautiful pasture safe for your horses should be every horse owner’s goal. But, like most things, it takes time, hard work, knowledge, and care. Pasture Spraying is one piece of the puzzle. So let’s take a moment to look a little deeper.
Benchmarking
The first step is to think about your goals for the pasture. Do you want a pasture that looks good? How about a pasture with a minimal amount of weeds? Maybe it is essential to have a high-capacity forage. Set a clear goal, write it down, and take pictures. It is good to have before and after comparisons.
Scouting
Scouting is the act of getting out and walking your property. Be sure to take note of the different weeds you see. Keep an eye out for areas that are hard to reach with a tractor. Be mindful of ponds and lakes. Don’t forget to identify brown spots, heavy vegetation areas, shaded areas, and other landmarks that stand out.
Weed Control
Take pictures of weeds and other plants during the scouting stage. You can send photos of plants you can’t identify to the local Extension office. It is key to correctly identify weeds when implementing a weed control plan.
Dangerous Weeds
There are many dangerous and poisonous weeds in the Ocala Horse Country area. Fortunately, most horses don’t have an appetite for harmful plants. However, it is still essential to keep the weeds under control.
Creeping Indigo
Creeping Indigo (Indigofera spicata) is very dangerous for horses. It is imperative to irradicate it from your pasture. Although this weed is a prostrate plant lying low to the ground, it can be identified by scouting. Herbicides such as GrazonNext HL should be applied to wipe out this invasive plant.
Soil Testing
Soil testing for land is like blood tests for people. Soil tests help identify the soil’s minerality, ph level, and composition. Use a soil sample probe to collect samples from multiple locations and mix the samples together. Lay the soil on a clean cloth or paper to dry. Submit approximately one pint of soil in a soil sample bag or sealable plastic bag.
Test results will assist with making a game plan resulting in a quality pasture.
But remember, there are many variables in pasture management. Understanding the local climate, forage quality and capacity, horse status, etc., are all tools in developing a pasture your horses will love. Creating a timeline, considering seasonality, is an essential step in planning and budgeting for a pasture that will make you proud.
How can Equine Turf help?
Equine Turf can facilitate all or some aspects of proper pasture management. Feel free to call us at (813) 713-1462 or fill out this form for more information.
We offer:
- Consultation
- Scouting
- Soil Testing
- Soil Treatment
- Weed Control
- Pasture Spraying
- Paddock Spraying
- Planning
- Budgeting
- and more!