When to sow grass seed?also in SY

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karenjj

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Hi, as title really, when can I re-seed my small paddocks? They have turned to mud over winter :-( I read I have to keep the ponies off them for 4-6 months after re-seeding? Also, can I do it myself by just sprinkling seed (they are 1/2 acre big each) or do I have to ask a farmer to do it for me only I'd have to pull down a few fences for that I think! Thanks
 
Sow when the ground warms up. Probably march/april. The ground should be rolled after seeding so you may need a farmer anyway.
 
If you want to do the job properly then you need to get in a specialist grassland contractor to do the work for you.
Get soil samples taken to determine what grass seed mixture would be best for your fields
Use total kill on the grass to get rid of weeds, thistles, nettles including any ragwort and allow 4 weeks for it to work.
Then plough up the field.
If required and it sounds as if you need it put in underground plastic drainage pipes to remove excess water.
Also if required put in 25mm plastic water pipes for water troughs.
Cultivate the field.
Sow grass seeds in March or September.
Roll fields
Fertilise to get the seed going
Once the grass grows then either cut it or cut and collect it to dense it up at least twice through the growing season.
Keep horses off the new grass for at least 2 years if you want it to last.
 
Ive posted in SY
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But id also like to comment on the above post if i may, all that sounds fantastic but with people working on budgets sometimes then a simple job works just as well, 1/2 acre paddock size isnt really suitable for a tractor and plough due to fences i persume, a simple re-seed/roll job would do (harrow a bonus if in budget)
 
I had presumed that I would have to wait until the danger of frosts was over (March - ish). I too am waiting to get the harrow and rollers out on the paddocks to in preparation for seeding.
 
(My post from SY)

Some people say September/October is the best time for grass seed but personaly i dont think it matters (not over winter tho) april-may time always a good time, do alot end of march throw till may on re-seeds.
Depends how accurately you want the grass? By hand is fine as 1/2 acre isnt much, but if you knew someone who could do it they could get it on more evenly all over.
 
I sow my winter paddocks in april when things warm up and as my field is mostly hill I cann't roll the ground but where the ground has been badly churned up a garden hoe works wonders. And yes I use a bucket on my left arm and throw with my right hand and the grass comes up, but I'm on sandy soil so have double the trouble
 
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