When should I seed my pastures? Also, what should I look into for good quality seed? Where can I rent equipment to till or turn my pasture if need be?
An answer right from the Rutgers Equine Science Center!
“In New Jersey, the best seeding time in the spring is around the 15th of March. If you plant any later, the seed will not have enough time to germinate through the spring and will take much longer to establish. In the fall, September 15th is the guideline. Planting later in the fall runs the risk of frost damage to young plants that have not developed extensive root systems, potentially killing the plants.
A good horse pasture mix should contain Kentucky Bluegrass, Orchardgrass and Tall Fescue (if not breeding mares or use endophyte free or friendly varieties). If the seed mix does not contain these or contains high percentage of clover or timothy, I would not recommend it. Also check if the seed mix guarantees low weed seed content. Some cheaper seed has weeds in it, which you do not want. You could also ask your local Cooperative Extension Agent for a good place purchase pasture seed in your area and for any information regarding rental equipment.”