21/06/2026
How do we build strong roots?
Some easy things we can & should do to help our grass roots that feed our horses grow stronger and healthier.
First, would be to avoid over grazing.
Grass needs leaf area to photosynthesis & adequate time to complete the growth process.
I only have a small 5 acres, if that for grazing. It’s a super easy amount of land to over graze on & I technically am in winter.
I have 3 big horses usually (I currently have an extra which usually isn’t here, so currently 4) + dani’s 10HH pony on it.
Yet, I still manage to give the paddocks 6- 7 weeks rest per area by rotating paddocks. + avoid letting the horses graze it right down to the dirt. I have to admit, when the rain comes it can be harder to avoid the horses grazing it down to the dirt from them tearing the ground up, topping up with baleage in winter helps the horses grazing it down before moving paddocks.
In winter the entire re growth process of grass, from the moment it’s grazed to the time it should be re grazed can vary between 6 weeks & 8.5 weeks.
Secound, Fertilise Regularly - Not just in the spring.
Applying nutrients to the soil twice a year (autumn & spring) supports root growth, plant health, pasture recovery & soil health. Even more often if your paddocks are previously or consistently over grazed
Because, healthy pasture starts under ground. It’s super important to get your soil health right by fertilising with a range of different types of fertiliser, I personally go for the natural choices.
You can test your soil prior to fertilising. However, you would have to do a test for every 4-5 square meters as the soil is often not consistent with the nutrient levels throughout the entire field let alone your entire property.
Another top tip - manage compaction.
While its good to roll your paddocks heading your spring as it allows the water to drain, reducing it clogging and becoming muddy. You also have to consider aeriation… why?
Aeration helps open the soil back up, allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to move deeper into the root zone where they’re actually needed. Encouraging roots to grow down instead of staying near the surface.
