Use a soil test and an assessment of forage supply and forage species to determine fertilizer need. If suitable species are not present, fertilization will not compensate for a poor stand. In this case, consider renovating the pasture. Cows prefer grazing grasses over legumes and graze perennial ryegrass before tall fescue. Sheep graze selectively, preferring clover and grass mixtures with short, lush feed to tall, coarse plants.
Horses are selective grazers, eating a wide range of plants.
The horse digestive system cannot handle large amounts of legumes. Small and frequent amounts of forage are best. Cool season forages such as tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, orchardgrass, subclover, and white clover are suited for our climate. After choosing the appropriate forage species and planting method, use a soil test as the basis for fertilization. For a preplant soil test, obtain samples from the tillage depth, generally the surface to 6 inches.