Pasture & Paddock Management
Pasture and paddock management for healthier horses and land
Good grazing is the basis of good horse care. We plan and manage your paddocks through the year, looking after the soil, grass, drainage and weeds so you get more from your land.
- Soil testing and 12-month field plans
- Grazing rotation and rest periods
- Ragwort, weed and drainage control
Overview
Why does horse pasture need managing?
Horses are hard on land. They graze some areas down to the soil, leave others to grow long and churn up wet ground with their hooves. In the North East, heavy rain and long winters make this worse. Without a plan, good pasture can turn into mud, weeds and bare patches within a couple of seasons.
We start by getting to know your land. We test the soil, map each field and look at how it drains and how it is used. From there we set stocking levels and rotation dates, and book the right work for the right time of year.
The result is more usable grazing, lower feed bills and fields that get better each year instead of worse. For more on the seasonal side, read our guide to pasture management in the North East.
At a glance
- Ideal for
- Yards, studs, estates and private paddocks
- Engagement
- Annual programme or seasonal projects
- Planning
- A 12-month plan for each field
- Climate
- Built around North East conditions
What’s included
What our pasture & paddocks service includes
Every property is different, so we agree the exact scope with you. These are the areas we usually cover.
Soil testing and nutrition
We test soil pH and nutrients, and recommend lime or fertiliser only where your pasture needs it.
Grazing and rotation
Stocking levels, rotation and rest periods are planned to protect the grass and break the worm cycle.
Ragwort and weed control
We find, remove and control ragwort and other problem weeds, and dispose of them safely.
Drainage and poaching
Gateways, tracks and wet areas are improved to reduce mud and winter damage.
Seasonal field work
Harrowing, rolling, topping, overseeding and reseeding are booked for the right time of year.
Parasite-aware grazing
Droppings removal and grazing routines support the worm control plan you agree with your vet.
Who it’s for
Who uses our pasture service?
- Livery yards where the fields take heavy use
- Studs that need clean, safe paddocks for youngstock
- Private owners with a few acres
- Landowners who rent grazing to horse owners
Results
What difference will you notice?
- More grazing and lower feed costs
- Fewer bare, muddy and weedy areas
- A clear plan for every field
- Land in better condition each year
Getting started
How do we get started?
The first steps are the same for every service, and none of them commit you to anything.
A first conversation
We talk about your property, your horses and what you want to achieve, and answer your questions. There is no obligation.
A site visit
We look round the yard, land and buildings and go through your routines and records to see what is working and what is not.
A written proposal
You receive a clear proposal setting out what we recommend, how involved we would be, the timescales and the cost.
Management and reporting
We put the plan into action and send you regular reports in plain English, so you always know where things stand.
FAQs
Common questions about pasture & paddocks
Can’t see your question? Try our main FAQ page or ask us directly.
How much land does a horse need?
It depends on the soil, grass quality, drainage and how long horses are turned out. A common rule of thumb is around 1 to 1.5 acres per horse for grazing, but we will look at your land and suggest realistic stocking levels.
Is ragwort control a legal requirement?
Common ragwort is classed as an injurious weed in England, and landowners can be required to stop it spreading, particularly onto grazing land. It is also poisonous to horses, so we treat it as a priority.
Can you manage the land without managing the horses?
Yes. Many clients use our pasture and land services on their own and keep their existing yard routine.
When is the best time to reseed a paddock?
In the North East, late summer to early autumn is often the most reliable time, while the soil is still warm and moist. Spring can also work if the ground dries out early enough. We choose the window that suits your fields.
Related services
Services that work well alongside this one
Grounds, Fencing & Infrastructure
Safe fencing, sound buildings and well-kept arenas, tracks and water supplies.
Learn more
Equestrian Estate Management
Day-to-day running of private and commercial equestrian estates, from the yard to the budget.
Learn more
Livery Yard Management
Help running a well-organised, profitable livery yard with clear systems and happy clients.
Learn moreLet’s talk
Talk to us about pasture & paddocks
Tell us about your property, your horses and what you would like to change. We will arrange a first conversation and send you a proposal, with no obligation.