Horses seem to be extremely sensitive to toxins produced by the endophyte fungus. Use endophyte-free tall fescue seed whenever establishing new fescue stands for horses. This can be an important economic factor in pasture production. Legumes contain approximately twice the protein levels of grass. Thus the protein needs of horses can in some instances be met with the addition of legumes to pastures.
Legumes enhance the acceptability, digestibility and palatability of the pasture.
This in general improves pasture utilization and enhances animal health. Legume Selection White clover is a shallow rooted perennial which makes little growth during the hot, dry summer period. Because it has a prostrate type growth it is well suited to permanent pastures. It is usually included in most pasture seeding mixes. Red clover is the most widely grown of the true clovers and frequently is included in pasture mixes for horses where tall fescue or orchardgrass are being seeded.