How soon can horses go on field after cutting hay?

[Ali27]

So I’m currently in process of buying a 5 acre field but it’s being cut for hay next week! Hopefully completing next week and then ideally I want to move them ASAP! But not sure how long field should be left! Both ponies are very good doers so on restricted grazing! I’m ideally going to electric fence a track around edge. Would be grateful for any advice! Thanks

 

[ycbm]

Immediately. Why not? Lots of people mow their fields to keep the grass down.

 

[joelb]

I read somewhere that fructans are super concentrated in stems (like the remaining stubble) so you may want to wait until some leaf comes through if you have good doers. Not certain how accurate that is but worth looking in to.

 

[milliepops]

I've always turned out straight away

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

Immediately, there is no reason not to..

 

[ester]

ditto straight away.

 

[irishdraft]

Immediately

 

[sport horse]

Immediately

 

[Ali27]

Great! Thanks everyone I might just pop sheep on for a week too!

 

[Carrottom]

If you put your track around the edge they should have some long bits missed by the mower and bailer.

 

[Errin Paddywack]

If it has only just had the hay taken off it the sheep might not be very impressed.

 

[Leandy]

Immediately, but if I wanted restricted grazing I'd be using the middle not the edge. Surely the edge is still very long?

 

[Goldenstar]

Newly mown grass can produce rocket fuel when it gets warmth and rain if that’s not a problem there’s no reason why they can’t go out .

 

[splashgirl45]

as far as i was aware very short grass has more fructens than the longer grass so i wouldnt think having sheep take it very low would be a good thing....might be worth googling the laminitis trust to see if they have any advice