Topping

[HorseS0S]

Had our fields topped at the weekend. It makes such a difference to how they look and got rid of the evil buttercups!

Conflicting advice on how long to leave the fields before turning horses back out (currently in an untopped paddock) so wanted some of your views please...?

Thanks x x x

 

[xcalicox]

Huh!

I got told it was too late to do topping

*rushes off to make OH arrange it*

 

[seche]

As far as im concerned it is NEVER too late to whip the heads of the buttercup!!

 

[HorseS0S]

Yep June, July is perfect time to top!

 

[kate081]

I'd give it a week if it's dry.

I've not managed to top mine yet. Still too wet & it's June!!

 

[Toby_Zaphod]

My paddocks are being topped tonight. I have docks growing to 2'06" high at the moment. The rainfall we had over the last week or so has made them grow huge.

 

[Comanche]

I HATE DOCKS!!! ARRGH. We had a fire that ruined our topper and so my poor OH is currently topping with a small petrol mower until insurance pays out. He does look funny wandering round 12 acres with the little machine lol, bless him

 

[Steeleydan]

We top our fields very regular during the summer did it 3 weeks ago and needs doing again(we only have one horse so it grows too quick). We aim to try and keep our grass about 3 inches high if you constantly keep the grass low its more palatable to the horses, as they dont like long stalky grass, we have found regular topping made our grass thicker and has really improved our field, and as for how long do you need to keep them off it? We top while the horse is in the field and never leave him off it. we are going to do it again this week damn butter cups cant keep pace with them!