Most grasses reach maximum nutritional value just before going to seed, however, some grasses lose palatability at this stage so your sheep will just not eat those varieties. Therefore, at or before that time is when your sheep should harvest the pasture to get maximum benefit. This is not always possible, especially in the spring when the grass grows faster than the sheep can eat it and during a drought when there isn t enough grass. Most farmers take very good care of their animals, being sure that they get whatever attention they need to stay in top form. As grass farmers, it is critical to take equally good care of our pastures.
Soil tests are helpful in determining the nutritional condition of the pasture soil.
We prefer to have soil tests done through our Extension Service or agricultural college. One must be very careful when interpreting the soil test and the advice that usually comes along with the test results. Happy soil is far more important than having the ph or mineral readings right on the mark. Soil with lots of organic material in it and a healthy earthworm population will overcome many ph and mineral deficiencies. Happy soil doesn t just happen over night, it takes years of constant upgrading to achieve this goal.