Grasses:
* Kentucky bluegrass: A popular choice for its high palatability, good nutrient content, and ability to tolerate heavy traffic.
* Timothy: Known for its high digestibility and low sugar content, making it suitable for horses prone to laminitis.
* Orchardgrass: A high-yielding grass with good nutritional value, but can be coarse and difficult to digest for foals.
* Fescue: A hardy grass that can tolerate drought conditions, but can contain a fungus that can cause health problems in horses.
* Ryegrass: A fast-growing grass with good palatability and high nutritional value.
* Bermuda grass: A warm-season grass that thrives in hot climates.
* Bahia grass: Another warm-season grass, known for its drought tolerance.
Forage Mixtures:
Many horse owners opt for forage mixtures that combine various grasses to provide a balanced diet and cater to specific needs:
* Pasture mixes: A blend of various grasses, legumes, and other forages that provide a diverse range of nutrients.
* Hay mixtures: Similar to pasture mixes, but specifically for hay production.
Factors to Consider:
The best type of grass for your horse will depend on factors like:
* Climate: Warm-season grasses thrive in hot climates, while cool-season grasses are better suited for colder climates.
* Soil type: Different grasses have varying soil requirements.
* Horse's health: Some grasses are better suited for certain health conditions.
* Availability: Local availability of specific grasses.
Important Note: Horses should have access to a variety of forage to ensure a balanced diet.