May 2021 Issue

Page 10 May 2021 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN By Joy Beam - King’s AgriSeeds It has been said that horses can hear grass growing. They seem to have a sixth sense to know where and when a blade of grass is growing. Then, as soon as they hear this dinner bell chime, they prance over and bite off the fresh blade of grass. Horses may not actually be able to hear grass growing; how- ever, it can seem this way as it is challenging to keep horse pastures lush, green, and growing. Assum- ing that it is the goal to have more productive pastures to graze on in order to limit hay bought and fed, there are several key points to keep in mind to keep the stand healthy and thriving. Beginning with the appropri- ate mix of grasses is the first step, but after the pasture is estab- lished, the most important man- agement practice is maintaining a good residual height. Grazing lower than a four inch height re- sidual can stunt the grass, causing Managing Pasture for Those That Hear the Grass Grow it to regrow slower than if a longer residual height had been left and leading to overall lower production. Considering the stocking rate, or the number of horses on the total number of acres on the farm, should be held in tangent with the residual height. If there are more mouths to feed than what the acreage can support, maintaining a good residual height becomes increasingly dif- ficult. Beginning with the proper stocking rate will set a farm up for success. Then, if possible, aim for ro- tational grazing among paddocks. Thirty-day rest periods between grazing’s are recommended in order for grasses to refuel their energy reserves, but any rest is better than no rest. If you would like further information on the appropriate pasture mix to begin with or how to best manage the assets on your farm, contact your King’s Agri- Seeds dealer. Fisher’s Fencing LLC has been serving customers with their fencing needs since 2005. The growing company strives to provide customers with quality fencing products and workman- ship that meets or exceeds today’s Trust Fisher’s Fencing for Quality Products and Workmanship industry standards. Whether you need fencing in your backyard, on your farm, or for your equine oper- ation, Fisher’s Fencing is dedicated to helping you find the correct application and installation at a fair price, without sacrificing quality. “We know you care for your horses. We believe you should also care about the fences surrounding them. Whether you choose our Cen Flex option, with its great flexibility, or want the more traditional look of post and board fencing, we will put your equine fence in place,” said owner David Byler. “We understand the importance of quality products at reasonable prices. We are com- mitted to helping our customers in the entire process. From the initial inquiry to final installation, we will be there to answer all your questions. Whatever your equine need, we’re here to help!” Fisher’s Fencing also offers slip board, vinyl horse fence, woven wire split rail and coated high tensile as well as fencing for businesses and homeowners. Fisher’s Fencing, located in southern Lancaster County, PA is a member of the American Fence Association. Most impor- tantly – they try to respond to your request in a timely manner. Visit fisherfencing.com or email sales@fisherfencing.com . Visit us online at www.eastcoastequestrian.net