Newbie question about fescue grass.

[KathyB]

I would like to have my county extension office come out and test my pasture for fescue grass. Is it a specific type of fescue that I need to be concerned about, or is it all fescue grass?

Thanks

 

[hhpminis]

Hi Kathy

There are newer types of Fescue that are supposedly safe as they are mold free. It is actually the mold on the grass that is not good for horses.

We live in Eastern Washington where it is very dry and they say we should not worry about Fescue. Personally, I would rather be safe than sorry so I do not let my mares out on pasture the last month or so of their pregnancy.

I would have it tested, then you know. Also too, unless you are breeding and have lactating mares this is not a problem.

Welcome by the way to the forum.

 

[Jean_B]

Some excellent articles here on managing pastures / horses and fescue:

http://www.aragriculture.org/lvstkforg/pub...ons/default.asp

Look under the sections for GRASSES and HORSES