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Best Pasture Grass For Horses (2025 Update)

If you’re looking for the best pasture grass for horses, there are several factors to consider before making a final decision. First, you need to determine the climate in your area and what type of grass grows best. Different types of grass are better suited to different environments, and the right grass can help keep your horses healthy and happy.

Another important factor is the nutritional content of the grass. Horses need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy, and the right pasture grass can provide valuable nutrients like protein and fiber. Be sure to research different grass types and their nutritional benefits before choosing a pasture grass for your horses.

Some questions to consider before selecting the best pasture grass for horses include: How much time will the horses spend on the pasture? Does the area receive enough rainfall to support the grass? Is the soil in the area suitable for growing healthy grass? By answering these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose the best pasture grass for your horses, ensuring that they have access to safe and nutritious food year-round. With the right grass, your horses will thrive and enjoy the benefits of a healthy pasture diet.

10 Best Pasture Grass For Horses

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for horse pastures in semi-arid regions, offering drought tolerance, excellent coverage, and high-quality nutrition for horses.
2
The product is ideal for creating a horse pasture in the transitional Southwest region.
3
Ideal for horse pastures in the mid-west/mid-Atlantic regions with moderate grazing and high soil moisture.
4
Ideal for creating lush horse pastures in the Great Lakes/New England region, with a mix of grasses and legumes.
5
This product is ideal for cool seasonal pastures, lawns, or grassy areas.
6
Ideal for establishing a horse pasture in the Great Plains eco-region, covering 2.5 acres with premium grass seed blend.
7
Ideal for overseeding and improving pasture and forage production on farms and ranches.
8
Ideal for creating a healthy and lush pasture area suitable for horses in the Intermountain West region.
9
Ideal for horse pastures and hayfields, providing a high yield of nutrient-rich grasses suitable for grazing and feeding.
10
Ideal for producing horse hay with great yields during warm seasons.
Ideal for horse pastures in semi-arid regions, offering drought tolerance, excellent coverage, and high-quality nutrition for horses.
The product is ideal for creating a horse pasture in the transitional Southwest region.
Ideal for horse pastures in the mid-west/mid-Atlantic regions with moderate grazing and high soil moisture.
Ideal for creating lush horse pastures in the Great Lakes/New England region, with a mix of grasses and legumes.
This product is ideal for cool seasonal pastures, lawns, or grassy areas.
Ideal for establishing a horse pasture in the Great Plains eco-region, covering 2.5 acres with premium grass seed blend.
Ideal for overseeding and improving pasture and forage production on farms and ranches.
Ideal for creating a healthy and lush pasture area suitable for horses in the Intermountain West region.
Ideal for horse pastures and hayfields, providing a high yield of nutrient-rich grasses suitable for grazing and feeding.
Ideal for producing horse hay with great yields during warm seasons.

1. Nature's Seed Southwest Semi-Arid Steppe Horse Pasture Blend (2.5 Acre), (Pb-Ssah-2.5-A)

Introducing a new blend of pasture seed that is perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy and lush lawn. This expertly crafted blend contains a mix of high-quality grass varieties that are specifically designed to thrive in a variety of conditions.

The blend includes 30% Smooth Brome, 20% Intermediate Wheatgrass, 20% Tall Fescue (no endophyte), 20% Crested Wheatgrass, and 10% White Dutch Clover. These grass varieties are carefully selected to provide a rich and diverse mix of textures and colors, creating a lawn that is both functional and visually appealing.

With a seeding rate of 20 lbs. per acre, this blend is easy to apply and provides excellent coverage. The grass will germinate quickly and grow in thick and lush, providing a beautiful and durable lawn that can withstand heavy foot traffic, pets, and other outdoor activities.

The blend is also designed to be low maintenance, requiring minimal watering and mowing. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want a beautiful lawn without the hassle of constant upkeep.

2. Nature's Seed Pb-Swth-2.5-A Southwest Transitional Horse Pasture Blend, 2.5 Acre

This carefully crafted blend of seeds is designed to yield a lush, vibrant pasture that is sure to impress. Comprising of a variety of high-quality seeds, this blend includes 30% Smooth Brome, 20% Intermediate Wheatgrass, 20% Tall Fescue (no endophyte), 20% Crested Wheatgrass, and 10% White Dutch Clover.

When planted at a seeding rate of 20 lbs. per acre, this blend is sure to provide optimal results and create a stunning landscape. The Smooth Brome seed is known for its hardy nature and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, while the Intermediate Wheatgrass adds a touch of elegance with its slender, graceful blades. The Tall Fescue (no endophyte) is a safe and reliable option, and the Crested Wheatgrass is renowned for its resilience and durability. The White Dutch Clover adds a splash of color and helps to promote a healthy, thriving pasture.

Whether you're a farmer looking to cultivate the perfect pasture for your livestock or simply a homeowner looking to create a stunning landscape, this blend is sure to exceed your expectations. With its optimal blend of high-quality seeds, you can rest assured knowing that your pasture will look and feel its best. So why wait? Order your blend today and experience the difference for yourself!

3. Nature's Seed 2.5 Acre Mid-West/mid-Atlantic Horse Pasture Blend,pb-Mwh-2.5-A

This carefully crafted blend of pasture grass seeds is designed to provide an optimal mix of hardy and nutritious grasses, suitable for a wide range of livestock and grazing purposes. The blend comprises of approximately 30% Kentucky Bluegrass, 20% Perennial Ryegrass, 20% Orchard grass, 20% Smooth Brome, and 10% Alfalfa, all carefully selected for their unique properties and benefits.

Kentucky Bluegrass, for instance, is known for its excellent durability and resilience, while Perennial Ryegrass is a fast-growing grass that can provide quick forage for grazing animals. Orchard grass, on the other hand, is a nutrient-rich grass that is particularly beneficial for horses, while Smooth Brome is a sturdy, drought-resistant grass that can thrive in a wide range of conditions.

This blend is carefully formulated to ensure a well-balanced and diverse pasture that can provide year-round grazing and nutrition for livestock. The recommended seeding rate is 20 lbs. per acre, which can vary depending on soil conditions and other factors. Whether for cattle, horses, sheep, or other livestock, this versatile blend of pasture grass seeds is an excellent choice for any farmer or rancher looking to improve their grazing land.

4. Nature's Seed 1 Acre Great Lakes/new England Horse Pasture Blend, Eco Region, (Pb-Glh-1-A)

Introducing a top-quality blend of grass seeds that is carefully crafted to produce a lush and healthy stand of grass. This blend is comprised of a mix of five premium grass species that are specifically chosen to provide excellent coverage and optimal growth.

The blend consists of 25% Orchard grass, 25% Kentucky Bluegrass, 20% Perennial Ryegrass, 20% Timothy, and 10% Alfalfa. Each seed type is selected for its unique characteristics that contribute to the overall quality of the stand. Orchard grass provides excellent forage and is highly palatable to livestock. Kentucky Bluegrass is known for its dense growth and attractive appearance, making it a popular choice for lawns and landscaping. Perennial Ryegrass is a fast-growing grass that is perfect for quickly establishing a new lawn. Timothy is a hardy grass that can withstand harsh weather conditions and is an excellent source of hay. Alfalfa, on the other hand, is a high-yielding legume that can improve soil quality and provide additional nutrition for grazing animals.

To achieve optimal results, it is recommended to plant this blend at a seeding rate of 20 lbs. per acre. This will ensure that there is enough coverage and density to produce a healthy and vibrant stand of grass. Whether you're looking to create a lush lawn, improve pasture quality, or establish a new field, this blend of premium grass seeds is the perfect choice for achieving your desired results.

5. Jonathan Green (11620) Pasture Grass Mixture – Cool Season Lawn Seed (50 Lb)

For those who are looking for a reliable cool season-grass seed for their livestock, this Pasture Grass Mixture might be the answer. It is specially designed for grazing animals, including horses, cattle, sheep, and others.

One of the main features of this grass mixture is its elite forage grasses. These grasses are not only palatable but also easy to digest, making it an ideal choice for livestock. Additionally, this mixture is suitable for use in paddocks and pastures, and can thrive in full sun to partially shaded areas.

What sets this Pasture Grass Mixture apart from other grass seeds in the market is that it is endophyte-free. Endophytes can cause illness in grazing animals if their diet relies heavily on endophytic turfgrasses. Therefore, this grass mixture is a safer alternative for livestock.

This 50 lb bag of Pasture Grass Mixture is capable of overseeding up to 43,560 sq. ft. and newly seeding 21,780 sq. ft. It has a germination time of 10-14 days, ensuring complete coverage of the designated area.

6. Nature's Seed 2.5 Acre Great Plains Horse Pasture Blend, Eco Region, (Pb-Gph-2.5-A)

This expertly crafted blend of seeds is designed to produce a beautiful and healthy pasture, perfect for grazing livestock or simply enjoying the lush greenery. The blend includes a carefully balanced mix of 30% Smooth Brome, 20% Crested Wheatgrass, 20% Kentucky Bluegrass, 20% Tall Fescue (no endo), and 10% Alfalfa. These ingredients have been selected for their unique properties and are sure to create a vibrant and thriving pasture.

To ensure optimal results, the recommended seeding rate for this blend is 20 lbs. per acre. This rate has been carefully calculated to provide the perfect balance of coverage and growth, giving your pasture the best chance for success. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a hobbyist gardener, this blend is sure to impress with its impressive parameters and specifications.

Smooth Brome is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile addition to any pasture. Crested Wheatgrass is well-suited for dry climates, while Kentucky Bluegrass adds a touch of beauty with its vibrant blue-green hue. Tall Fescue (no endo) is a hardy grass that can withstand heavy grazing, and Alfalfa provides valuable nutrition for grazing livestock.

7. X-Seed 440fs0021uct185 Land Over-Seeder Pasture Forage Seed, 25-Pound , Green

The Micro-Boost is a powerful seed blend that has been carefully formulated to maximize the potential of your lawn. This product is designed to enhance germination, which means that your lawn will grow faster and healthier than ever before. With Micro-Boost, you can develop longer, more fibrous roots and create larger seedlings that will result in a lush, green lawn that will be the envy of your neighbors.

One of the key features of Micro-Boost is its ability to rejuvenate old, permanent fields. If you have a lawn that has seen better days, this product can help bring it back to life. The powerful blend of 15-percent Maximo intermediate ryegrass, 20-percent Orchard grass, 3-percent clover, 49-percent gulf annual ryegrass, and 13-percent intermediate ryegrass will work together to create a healthy, vibrant lawn that will last for years to come.

Another great feature of Micro-Boost is that it is endophyte-free, which means that it is safe for both humans and animals. This is an important consideration for anyone who wants to maintain a healthy, thriving lawn without putting their family or pets at risk.

Finally, Micro-Boost is incredibly easy to use. It covers up to one acre, which means that you can quickly and easily plant a large area with minimal effort. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a novice, you will find that Micro-Boost is a powerful and effective tool that will help you create the perfect lawn. With its powerful blend of ingredients, ease of use, and endophyte-free formulation, Micro-Boost is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a beautiful, healthy lawn that will be the envy of their neighborhood.

8. Nature's Seed Pb-Iwh-1-A 1 Acre Intermountain West Horse Pasture Blend

Introducing a high-quality blend of grass and alfalfa seeds that will transform your pasture into a lush and vibrant landscape. This expertly crafted blend features a combination of Smooth Brome, Orchard grass, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Alfalfa that is specifically designed to provide optimal growth and nutrition for your livestock.

With a precise ratio of 30% Smooth Brome, 20% Orchard grass, 20% Perennial Ryegrass, 20% Kentucky Bluegrass, and 10% Alfalfa, this blend ensures a well-balanced and diverse pasture that can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy grazing. The Smooth Brome and Orchard grass provide excellent ground cover and soil stabilization, while the Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass offer superior forage quality and palatability. The Alfalfa, a nutrient-rich legume, adds valuable protein and minerals to the pasture.

This blend is easy to plant and requires a seeding rate of 20 lbs. per acre. Once established, it will provide a dense and resilient pasture that can support a variety of livestock, including cattle, horses, and sheep. Whether you are a hobby farmer or a professional rancher, this blend is an excellent investment for the health and well-being of your animals.

9. X-Seed Pasture Land Equine Mixture With Micro-Boost Seed, 25-Pound

Introducing a top-quality Permanent Pasture seed that guarantees a lush and vibrant pasture all year round. This high-grade seed is specially designed to provide outstanding results for livestock grazing, hay production, or wildlife habitat.

One of the most notable features of this Permanent Pasture seed is its endophyte-free nature. Endophytes are fungi that can cause harm to animals that graze on pastures, such as decreased weight gain or other health issues. With this seed, you can rest assured that your animals are grazing on a safe and healthy pasture.

This Permanent Pasture seed comes in a package that covers up to one acre of land, providing ample coverage for your pasture needs, whether it be for personal or commercial use. Additionally, this seed is enriched with MICRO-BOOST technology, which promotes faster germination and greater yields. This technology ensures that your pasture will grow quickly and produce an abundant crop, allowing you to maximize your investment.

Whether you're an experienced farmer or a hobbyist, this Permanent Pasture seed is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a thriving, long-lasting pasture. The endophyte-free nature of this seed ensures the optimal health of your animals, while its MICRO-BOOST technology guarantees a lush and productive crop. Plant with confidence knowing that you have made the right choice for your pasture needs.

10. Teff Grass Seed (Annual Warm Season, Great Horse Hay) – 5 Pound – Wizard Seed Llc

Teff grass is an exceptional warm-season grass known for its rapid establishment. It forms a dense and lush green turf, making it an excellent grazing option for various animals. Its adaptability to different soil types and climates adds to its versatility. Teff grass is a popular choice for farmers and ranchers as it can be used as hay, silage, or pasture for cattle and horses.

The non-GMO seeds of Teff grass are of high quality, containing no filler. Its great germination rate ensures a healthy and robust stand. Teff grass is a reliable option for those seeking a resilient and low-maintenance grass variety.

Whether you are a farmer or rancher, Teff grass is an excellent choice for your grazing needs. Its dense, green turf provides a comfortable and hearty meal for your animals. Its adaptability to different environments makes it an ideal choice for various soil types and climates. With its non-GMO seeds and excellent germination rate, Teff grass is a reliable and low-maintenance option for your farming and ranching needs.

Best Pasture Grass For Horses FAQs

How can I maintain and improve the quality of my horse's pasture grass?

Maintaining and improving the quality of your horse's pasture grass is crucial in ensuring your horse's overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

1. Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient content of your soil. This will help you determine what type of fertilizer or minerals you need to add to improve the quality of your pasture grass.

2. Mowing: Regular mowing of your pasture grass is important to prevent it from becoming too long and coarse. This will also encourage the growth of new, healthy grass.

3. Rotational Grazing: Rotational grazing prevents overgrazing in one area and allows the grass to recover, promoting healthy growth.

4. Weed Control: Weeds can compete with pasture grass for nutrients and sunlight, so it's important to control them. Hand pulling or using herbicides can be effective methods.

5. Watering: Regular watering is important for maintaining healthy grass. If your pasture does not receive enough rainfall, consider using a sprinkler or irrigation system.

By following these simple tips, you can maintain and improve the quality of your horse's pasture grass, ensuring your horse is happy and healthy.

How do I choose the right pasture grass for my horse?

Choosing the right pasture grass for your horse is an important decision that can impact your horse’s health and well-being. There are several factors to consider when selecting the right pasture grass for your horse.

First, consider your horse’s nutritional needs. Different grasses have varying nutritional values, and it’s important to choose a grass that will provide your horse with the right balance of protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine your horse’s specific nutritional needs.

Second, consider your climate and soil type. Some grasses are better suited for certain climates and soil types than others. Research the grasses that are native to your area and consider their adaptability to your soil type and climate.

Third, consider your horse’s grazing habits. Some horses are more aggressive grazers than others, and some grasses are more tolerant of heavy grazing than others. Consider the grazing habits of your horse and choose a grass that can withstand their grazing patterns.

Lastly, consider any potential health risks associated with certain types of grasses. Some grasses can be toxic to horses, so it’s important to research the potential risks and choose a safe option.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right pasture grass for your horse and ensure their health and happiness.

How do I ensure my horse is getting enough grass in its diet?

To ensure that your horse is getting enough grass in its diet, you should consider a few factors. First, you should assess the quality and quantity of the pasture or hay your horse is consuming. A good pasture should have a variety of grasses that are healthy and not overgrazed. The hay should be fresh and free of mold or dust.

Secondly, you should evaluate the size and nutritional needs of your horse. A larger horse will require more grass than a smaller horse, and a horse with a high activity level will require more nutrients. You can consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount of grass for your horse's specific needs.

Finally, you should monitor your horse's weight and body condition. If your horse is losing weight or appears to be unhealthy, you may need to adjust their diet to include more grass or other sources of nutrition.

In summary, to ensure your horse is getting enough grass in its diet, you should assess the quality and quantity of the pasture or hay, evaluate your horse's size and nutritional needs, and monitor their weight and body condition.

How often should I rotate my horse's pasture to ensure optimal grazing?

Rotating your horse's pasture is an essential aspect of maintaining their health and ensuring optimal grazing conditions. The frequency at which you should rotate your horse's pasture depends on several factors, including the size of the pasture, the number of horses grazing, and the quality of the forage.

In general, it is recommended to rotate your horse's pasture every two to four weeks. This allows the grass to recover, regrow, and replenish nutrients that were consumed during the previous grazing period. Additionally, rotating your horse's pasture can help prevent overgrazing, reduce the risk of soil compaction, and minimize the incidence of parasites.

However, it is important to monitor your horse's pasture and adjust the rotation schedule accordingly. If you notice that the grass is not regrowing adequately or that your horse is consuming too much of the forage, you may need to increase the length of time between rotations or reduce the number of horses grazing in the pasture.

Overall, rotating your horse's pasture is a crucial component of equine management, and understanding the factors that influence the rotation schedule can help ensure optimal grazing conditions for your horse.

What are some common issues with pasture grass for horses?

Pasture grass is an essential component of a horse's diet, but it can also cause several issues if not managed properly. One of the most common issues is overgrazing, which can lead to soil erosion and the depletion of essential nutrients in the grass. Overgrazing can also result in the growth of weeds, which can be harmful to horses.

Another common problem is the presence of toxic plants in the pasture. Certain plants like buttercups, ragwort, and hemlock can be poisonous to horses, causing liver damage, respiratory issues, and even death.

Poor soil quality is another issue that can affect the health of pasture grass. Soil that lacks essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus can lead to stunted growth, thinning of grass, and increased susceptibility to disease.

Lastly, inadequate drainage can lead to standing water in the pasture, which can attract insects and promote the growth of fungi. This can cause skin irritations and infections in horses. Proper pasture management practices, including regular mowing, fertilization, and weed control, can help prevent these issues and ensure the health of the horses grazing on the pasture.

What are the advantages of different types of pasture grasses for horses?

Different types of pasture grasses offer various benefits for horses. For instance, Bermuda grass is highly drought-resistant and can withstand heavy grazing pressure. It is also high in protein and energy, making it an excellent choice for horses in hard work. Timothy grass, on the other hand, is low in protein and energy but high in fiber, making it ideal for horses that are prone to obesity or laminitis. Orchard grass is similar to Timothy grass but has higher protein content and lower fiber content, making it suitable for horses that need more nutrients.

Clover is another popular pasture grass that provides high protein and energy levels. However, it can cause bloating in some horses, so it should be fed in moderation. Fescue grass is also widely used in pastures due to its high drought tolerance and shade tolerance. It is suitable for horses that are prone to laminitis or obesity because of its low sugar content.

In summary, choosing the right pasture grass for horses depends on the horse's nutritional needs, workload, and any health issues. A balanced mix of different grasses can also provide a wider range of nutrients and help prevent overgrazing.

What are the best pasture grasses for horses?

When it comes to selecting the best pasture grasses for horses, there are a few factors that you need to consider. The first thing to keep in mind is that horses are selective grazers, which means that they tend to prefer certain types of grasses over others. Additionally, you will want to choose grasses that are safe for horses to eat and that provide adequate nutrition.

Some of the best pasture grasses for horses include:

1. Timothy Grass: This is a popular grass choice for horse pastures because it is low in protein and high in fiber, making it a great option for horses that need to maintain a healthy weight.

2. Bermuda Grass: This warm-season grass is a good choice for horse pastures because it is drought-tolerant and can withstand heavy grazing.

3. Orchard Grass: This grass is high in fiber and low in protein, making it a good choice for horses that are prone to colic.

4. Kentucky Bluegrass: This grass is a popular choice for horse pastures because it is palatable and high in nutrition.

5. Perennial Ryegrass: This grass is a good option for horse pastures because it is highly digestible and provides adequate nutrition.

Ultimately, the best pasture grasses for horses will depend on the specific needs of your horses and the climate and soil conditions in your area. Consult with a local agronomist or equine nutritionist for personalized recommendations.

What are the disadvantages of different types of pasture grasses for horses?

Different types of pasture grasses have their own advantages and disadvantages for horses. Some of the disadvantages of pasture grasses for horses are:

1. Tall Fescue: This grass has a high endophyte content that can cause problems like abortion, prolonged gestation, and reduced milk production in pregnant mares.

2. Bermuda Grass: This grass can cause sand colic in horses as it doesn't absorb water and sand particles easily.

3. Johnson Grass: This grass contains a toxic compound called prussic acid that can cause respiratory problems, seizures, and even death in horses.

4. Alfalfa: This grass has a high protein content which can cause digestive upset and colic in horses if consumed excessively.

5. Ryegrass: This grass can cause laminitis in horses due to its high sugar content.

6. Clover: This grass can cause slobbers in horses due to the fungus it contains.

It is important to choose the right type of pasture grass for horses based on their nutritional needs and potential health risks. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help in making the right choice.

What is the ideal height for pasture grass for horses?

The ideal height for pasture grass for horses depends on various factors, including the type of grass, the season, and the number of horses grazing. Generally, it is recommended to maintain the grass height between 3 and 6 inches, as this allows horses to graze and also promotes healthy growth of the grass. However, during the summer months, when the grass grows faster, it may need to be mowed more frequently to prevent it from becoming too tall. On the other hand, during the winter months, the grass may not grow as much, and it may be necessary to supplement the horses' diet with hay. It is also important to rotate pasture areas to prevent overgrazing and to allow the grass to recover. Overall, maintaining an appropriate grass height is crucial for ensuring that horses have access to nutritious and healthy forage.

Which grasses provide the most nutrients for horses?

When it comes to the nutrient intake of horses, it is important to choose the right type of grasses for their diet. Among the many types of grasses available for horses, there are some that provide more nutrients than others. The most nutrient-rich grasses for horses include Timothy, Orchard Grass, and Bermuda Grass.

Timothy grass is a popular choice for horse owners due to its high fiber content and low protein levels. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus. Orchard Grass is another good option for horses, as it is high in fiber and protein, and low in sugar. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and magnesium.

Bermuda Grass is a warm-season grass that is commonly used in the southern United States. It is nutrient-dense and rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. However, it is important to note that Bermuda Grass may not be suitable for all horses, as some may be allergic to it.

Ultimately, the choice of grasses for horses should depend on their specific nutritional needs, as well as their individual tastes and preferences. Consultation with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist is recommended to ensure that your horse's diet is balanced and meets their nutritional requirements.