Choosing the Best Forages for Horses by Climate and Pasture Type

Choosing the best forages for your horses depends heavily on your local climate and the type of pasture you have. Cool-season grasses like Timothy thrive in cooler areas, while warm-season grasses such as Bermudagrass suit warmer regions. Understanding soil health, rotational grazing, and your horse’s specific needs ensures optimal nutrition and pasture longevity.

Finding the right food for your horse can feel tricky, especially with so many choices. What grows well in one place might not work in another. Many horse owners wonder how to pick the perfect plants for their pastures. It’s a common challenge, but you’re in the right spot! This guide will make it easy to understand how climate and pasture type influence your choices. We’ll walk through each step, helping you create a healthy, thriving environment for your equine companions.

Understanding Your Horse’s Nutritional Needs

Before diving into specific forage types, it’s crucial to understand what horses need from their diet. Forages, whether pasture or hay, form the foundation of a horse’s diet, ideally making up 80-90% of their intake. They provide essential fiber for digestive health, energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. A horse’s nutritional requirements vary based on age, activity level, breed, and physiological state (e.g., growing, pregnant, lactating, senior). For example, a performance horse needs more energy and protein than a leisurely pleasure horse. Understanding these needs helps you select forages that meet their specific demands.

Horses are hindgut fermenters, meaning they rely on microbes in their large intestine to break down fiber. A consistent supply of good quality forage supports this delicate digestive system, preventing issues like colic and laminitis. Therefore, the goal is to provide a forage source that is both palatable and nutritionally appropriate, considering all these factors.

Key Factors in Forage Selection: Climate and Pasture Type

The two most significant determinants of which forage will thrive in your area are climate and the existing condition of your pasture. Ignoring these factors can lead to poor growth, low nutritional value, and wasted effort.

Climate Zones and Their Impact

Climate dictates which plants can grow successfully. Temperature, rainfall, and sunlight patterns are critical.

Temperate Climates: These areas experience distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. They are ideal for cool-season grasses and some legumes.
Arid/Semi-Arid Climates: Characterized by low rainfall and often extreme temperatures. Drought-tolerant forages are essential here. Irrigation may be necessary to sustain productive pastures.
Tropical/Subtropical Climates: High temperatures and often high humidity, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Warm-season grasses are dominant in these regions.

Pasture Types and Conditions

The current state and history of your pasture also play a vital role.

Established Pastures: These are existing pastures that may need renovation, overseeding, or simply better management. Understanding the current species present and soil health is key.
New Seeding: Starting from scratch allows for complete control over species selection and soil preparation. This is an opportunity to create an ideal mix.
Rotational Grazing Pastures: Designed for intensive management, these pastures benefit from diverse forage mixes that can recover quickly after grazing.
Dry Lots/Sacrifice Areas: While not traditional pastures, these areas still need consideration for ground cover to prevent mud and erosion, even if they aren’t primary forage sources.

Common Forage Types: Grasses

Grasses are the backbone of most horse pastures. They are generally safe, provide essential fiber, and can be managed to offer consistent nutrition.

Cool-Season Grasses (Thrive in 60-75°F / 15-24°C)

These grasses grow best in spring and fall and go dormant or slow growth during hot summers and cold winters. They are common in temperate regions.

Timothy (Phleum pratense):
- Pros: Highly palatable, low in sugar (NSC), excellent for sensitive horses. Often found in high-quality hay mixes.
- Cons: Less tolerant of heavy grazing, slower to establish, can be less productive in very hot or dry conditions.
- Climate/Pasture: Temperate climates, well-drained soils, good for established pastures with moderate grazing pressure.
Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata):
- Pros: Very palatable, productive, recovers well from grazing, good drought tolerance once established.
- Cons: Can become clumpy if not managed, may have higher NSC levels than Timothy.
- Climate/Pasture: Wide range of temperate climates, tolerates various soil types, excellent for rotational grazing.
Tall Fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus):
- Pros: Extremely hardy, drought-tolerant, tolerant of heavy grazing, grows well in poor soils.
- Cons: Older varieties contain endophytes that produce toxins (ergot alkaloids) harmful to pregnant mares (causing prolonged gestation, foaling difficulties, agalactia). Endophyte-free or novel endophyte varieties are safer.
- Climate/Pasture: Widely adaptable, especially in cooler temperate to warmer transition zones. Use endophyte-free varieties for horse pastures.
Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne):
- Pros: Establishes quickly, very palatable, good for overseeding.
- Cons: Can be high in sugar (NSC), making it less suitable for horses prone to laminitis. Some varieties can cause “ryegrass staggers” due to endophytes.
- Climate/Pasture: Cool, moist temperate climates. Best used in moderation or in specific mixes for healthy horses.

Warm-Season Grasses (Thrive in 80-95°F / 27-35°C)

These grasses grow best in hot weather and go dormant during cooler months. They are common in southern and tropical regions.

Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon):
- Pros: Very hardy, drought-tolerant, forms a dense sod, withstands heavy grazing, high yielding.
- Cons: Can be invasive, requires consistent fertilization for optimal growth. Some horses may develop “Bermudagrass impaction colic” if consuming mature, stemmy forage without adequate water.
- Climate/Pasture: Warm temperate to tropical climates, good for high-traffic pastures.
Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum):
- Pros: Extremely tough, drought and heat tolerant, grows well in sandy, poor soils, resists heavy grazing.
- Cons: Can be less palatable than Bermudagrass, lower protein content. Can sometimes develop ergot on seed heads, which is toxic.
- Climate/Pasture: Southern US, tropical and subtropical regions, ideal for less-managed or marginal pastures.
Teff (Eragrostis tef):
- Pros: Annual warm-season grass, excellent for horses with metabolic issues due to low NSC. Quick to establish, good for emergency forage or hay.
- Cons: Annual, so needs to be reseeded yearly. Less tolerant of heavy grazing as a pasture.
- Climate/Pasture: Warm climates, good for temporary pastures or hay production.

Common Forage Types: Legumes

Legumes are rich in protein and calcium but must be fed in moderation, especially to horses with specific health conditions.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa):
- Pros: High in protein, calcium, and energy. Very palatable. Excellent for growing horses, lactating mares, or horses needing weight gain.
- Cons: Can be too rich for some horses, potentially contributing to obesity or laminitis if overfed. Can also cause “slobbers” from a fungus (Rhizoctonia leguminicola) during wet periods.
- Climate/Pasture: Wide range of temperate climates, prefers deep, well-drained soils. Often mixed with grasses.
Clover (Red, White, Alsike):
- Pros: Adds nitrogen to soil, palatable, good protein source.
- Cons: Can cause “slobbers” like alfalfa. White clover can cause photosensitivity in some horses. Alsike clover can be toxic to horses, causing liver damage, so it’s best avoided in horse pastures.
- Climate/Pasture: Temperate climates, often mixed with grasses. Use red or white clover cautiously and in moderation.

Table 1: Forage Suitability by Climate and Horse Need

Forage Type	Climate Zone	Key Benefits	Considerations for Horses
Timothy	Temperate	Low NSC, highly palatable	Good for sensitive horses, moderate grazing tolerance
Orchardgrass	Temperate	Productive, good recovery	Palatable, versatile, moderate NSC
Tall Fescue	Temperate to Transition	Hardy, drought tolerant	Use endophyte-free varieties only, very tough
Bermudagrass	Warm Temperate to Tropical	Drought tolerant, dense sod, heavy grazing	Can be stemmy, requires good water intake
Bahiagrass	Subtropical to Tropical	Extremely tough, poor soil tolerant	Lower palatability/protein, ergot risk on seed heads
Alfalfa	Temperate	High protein, calcium, energy	Rich, use in moderation, “slobbers” risk
Red/White Clover	Temperate	Nitrogen fixer, palatable	“Slobbers” risk, white clover photosensitivity

Toxic Plants to Avoid

While this article focuses on beneficial forages, it’s vital to be aware of common toxic plants that can appear in pastures. These include but are not limited to: Johnsongrass (especially after frost or drought), sudangrass, red maple (leaves), oak (acorns, leaves), black walnut (wood shavings), yew, oleander, and various weeds. Always identify plants in your pasture and remove any known toxins. For a comprehensive guide, consult local agricultural extension services or resources like the ASPCA’s Toxic Plant List for Horses.

Pasture Management Strategies for Optimal Forage

Choosing the right forage is only half the battle. Effective pasture management ensures your chosen plants thrive and provide consistent nutrition.

Soil Testing and Amendments

This is the first and most critical step. A soil test tells you what nutrients are present or lacking, and the soil’s pH. Different forages have different pH preferences. For example, alfalfa prefers a more neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5), while many grasses tolerate a slightly acidic range (6.0-7.0).

Process: Collect soil samples from several areas of your pasture. Send them to a local agricultural extension office or private lab.
Interpretation: The report will recommend lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH), and specific fertilizers (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, micronutrients).
Application: Apply amendments as recommended. This creates an optimal environment for your chosen forages to absorb nutrients and grow vigorously.

A reliable soil test kit can be a great starting point for understanding your pasture’s needs. For instance, a MySoil Soil Test Kit can provide quick, detailed insights.

Rotational Grazing

This practice involves dividing your pasture into smaller paddocks and moving horses between them. It allows grazed areas to rest and regrow, preventing overgrazing and promoting healthier, more productive forage.

Benefits: Increases forage yield, improves pasture longevity, better nutrient utilization, helps control parasites by breaking life cycles.
Implementation: Requires fencing and a water source for each paddock. Move horses when forage is grazed down to 3-4 inches, allowing paddocks to rest for 2-4 weeks, depending on growth rates.

Weed Control

Weeds compete with desirable forages for nutrients, water, and sunlight. They can also be toxic to horses.

Methods: Mowing, hand-pulling, and selective herbicides are common strategies. Always identify weeds before applying herbicides and ensure they are safe for horses and the environment.
Prevention: Maintaining a dense, healthy pasture is the best defense against weeds.

Water Management

Adequate water is essential for forage growth. This includes natural rainfall and, if necessary, irrigation.

Drainage: Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can kill desirable forages and promote weed growth.
Drought Management: In arid climates or during dry spells, irrigation might be necessary. Consider drought-tolerant forage varieties.

Table 2: Pasture Management Checklist

Management Task	Frequency	Purpose	Key Considerations
Soil Testing	Every 3-5 years (or as needed)	Determine nutrient levels & pH	Follow lab recommendations for amendments
Fertilization/Liming	As per soil test results	Replenish nutrients, adjust pH	Apply when horses are off pasture, follow product instructions
Rotational Grazing	Daily/Weekly (as needed)	Allow pasture recovery, prevent overgrazing	Requires multiple paddocks, water access in each
Mowing	As needed (2-4 times/year)	Control weeds, promote even growth	Mow before weeds go to seed, maintain desired forage height
Weed Control	As needed (spot treat/broadcast)	Remove undesirable/toxic plants	Identify weeds, choose horse-safe methods, check grazing restrictions
Manure Management	Daily/Weekly	Reduce parasite load, distribute nutrients	Harrowing (in dry conditions), composting, removal
Overseeding	Annually/Biennially (as needed)	Improve stand density, introduce new species	Choose appropriate species for climate/soil, proper seed-to-soil contact

Supplementing Forage: Hay and Concentrates

Even with excellent pasture, there will be times when supplemental feed is necessary. During winter, drought, or when pastures are recovering, hay becomes the primary forage source. Choose hay that matches your horse’s needs, considering its type (Timothy, Orchardgrass, Alfalfa), quality (leafiness, color, smell), and nutritional analysis.

Concentrates (grains, pellets) should only be fed when forage alone cannot meet a horse’s energy or nutrient requirements. This is common for performance horses, growing youngsters, or lactating mares. Always balance concentrates with high-quality forage to maintain digestive health.

Consulting Experts: When and Why

While this guide provides a strong foundation, specific situations often benefit from expert advice.

Equine Veterinarian: For any health concerns related to diet, such as metabolic disorders, weight management, or digestive issues.
Equine Nutritionist: For detailed diet formulation, especially for horses with unique needs or complex health conditions.
Agronomist or Local Agricultural Extension Agent: For pasture planning, soil testing interpretation, forage selection specific to your microclimate, and weed control strategies. They can provide invaluable local knowledge.

These professionals can help you tailor your forage choices and management practices to your specific horses and environment, ensuring their health and your pasture’s sustainability. You can also find valuable resources on horse care, such as this article on 15 Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families, which highlights the importance of choosing the right fit for your home, similar to selecting the right forage for your horses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I know if my current pasture is good enough for my horses?

A1: Observe your horses’ body condition and energy levels. Also, look at your pasture: Is it dense and green, or sparse and full of weeds? A soil test and a forage analysis of your pasture (if possible) can provide objective data on its nutritional value. If your horses are losing weight or showing signs of nutrient deficiency, your pasture likely needs improvement or supplementation.

Q2: What’s the biggest mistake horse owners make with pastures?

A2: Overgrazing. Allowing horses to graze pastures down too short (below 3-4 inches) stresses the plants, depletes root reserves, and makes them less resilient. This leads to sparse pastures, increased weeds, and lower nutritional value. Rotational grazing is key to preventing this.

Q3: Can I mix different types of grasses and legumes in my pasture?

A3: Yes, absolutely! A diverse pasture mix often provides a more balanced diet and improves pasture resilience. For example, mixing cool-season grasses like Timothy and Orchardgrass with a small amount of red clover can offer varied nutrition. Just be mindful of the specific needs and potential issues (like endophytes in fescue or “slobbers” in clover) of each plant.

Q4: How often should I fertilize my horse pasture?

A4: This depends entirely on your soil test results. Fertilization should not be done on a fixed schedule without knowing what your soil needs. Over-fertilizing can be wasteful and even harmful. Typically, amendments are applied once a year or every few years based on the recommendations from your soil test report.

Q5: My horse is prone to laminitis. What forages should I choose?

A5: For horses prone to laminitis or with metabolic issues, choose forages with low Non-Structural Carbohydrate (NSC) levels. Timothy, Teff, and certain low-NSC orchardgrass varieties are generally good choices. Avoid high-sugar grasses like perennial ryegrass, and limit legumes like alfalfa and clover. Always consult your vet and an equine nutritionist for a tailored diet plan.

Q6: Is it better to plant native grasses or introduced species?

A6: The “best” choice depends on your specific goals and local ecosystem. Native grasses are often well-adapted to the local climate and soil, requiring less water and fertilization. However, some introduced species (like Timothy or Bermudagrass) are highly productive and palatable for horses. A mix of both, or choosing introduced species proven to thrive in your area, can be effective. Research local recommendations.

Q7: What is “sacrifice area” and why is it important?

A7: A sacrifice area (or dry lot) is a small, durable paddock where horses can be confined during periods when pastures are vulnerable, such as during wet weather, drought, or when pastures are being rested for regrowth. This prevents overgrazing, trampling, and mud formation in your main pastures, preserving their health and productivity. Horses in sacrifice areas should be fed hay.

Conclusion

Choosing the best forages for your horses is a dynamic process, influenced significantly by your local climate and the unique characteristics of your pasture. By understanding your horse’s nutritional needs, selecting appropriate cool-season or warm-season grasses and legumes, and implementing sound pasture management practices like soil testing and rotational grazing, you can create a thriving, nutritious environment. Remember, a healthy pasture contributes directly to a healthy horse. Don’t hesitate to consult with equine veterinarians, nutritionists, or local agricultural experts to tailor these strategies to your specific situation. With careful planning and consistent effort, you can ensure your horses enjoy the best possible forage year-round.

Choosing the Best Forages for Horses by Climate and Pasture Type