Grass Management for Optimal Horse Nutrition

Grass management is critical for optimal pasture productivity and quality in temperate climates. Peak dry matter production occurs in spring, with highest nutritional quality in early vegetative stages (leafy post-winter to heading phase). For horses, grazing should begin when grass averages 15 cm and end at 5 cm to ensure regrowth and prevent overgrazing. Rotational grazing with 4–5 paddocks, rest periods of 3–4 weeks in spring and 4–6 weeks in summer, and strategic mowing (e.g., deprime, mowing ungrazed areas) maintain forage quality. Stocking rates should be adjusted seasonally: 0.5–1 ha/horse/day in spring (40–45 ares), 1 ha/horse/day in summer. High-quality forage supports lactation and growth. References: Pauline Doligéz, Martin-Rosset W. (2012), *Fourrages Plus* (Soltner, 1988). Edition: 3 April 2025.