Grass Feed

Question
I live in Orange County, New York, about 1 hour northwest of New York City.  Right now, I've just had a field plowed, and want to plant grass for my horses to eat.  Do you have any suggestions for me?
Thanks so much,
Pam

Answer
Hi Pam,  My suggestion would be to plant either orchard grass, brome, or timothy.  All three of these types of grass are more quality than just fescue.  Horses seem to eat them well.  I would discourage against bermuda/coastal.  Reason being is the coastal/bermuda is much finer and tends to have a higher rate of colic due to impaction because of the fine texture, at least if baled.  The lugume grasses are great but they are higher in protein and unless you have pregnant mares and babies or high energized show horses you wouldn't need the extra protein.  If you want to plant alfalfa I would mix it with timothy, that seems to be a good mix.  I have hunter/jumpers and have had other types of performance horses and I prefer the orchard, brome, or timothy.  You may also contact your local agriculture extension office as they should have more extensive information on all types of grass or legume and what would grow best in your environment.  Hope this helps, Jessica