The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Smallholding => Land Management => Topic started by: Laura_Long on February 04, 2018, 05:08:04 pm

Title: Weed control on Pasture
Post by: Laura_Long on February 04, 2018, 05:08:04 pm

Hi All.

I have a 2.5 acre field that is laid to rye grass. It was cut for haylage last year in June and then was grazed by sheep Sept-Nov.  There are a lot of open patches without grass that weeds have taken root in. Mostly thistle and buttercup, and others I don't know the name of.

Any advice on how I can get rid of it without chemicals?  Will ploughing, rolling and re seeding work?  Is there a less drastic measure?

I plan to rent it to ponies or sheep again at some point so ideally want decent pasture. 

Thank you.

Title: Re: Weed control on Pasture
Post by: SallyintNorth on February 04, 2018, 05:46:15 pm

For thistles, topping is best (when in flower before seeding), Fell or Exmoor ponies also works well. “Spudding” (digging them out with a device like a potato peeler on a stick) is said to work but is a lot of work.

I think liming might be your only option for buttercups. I guess do a soil test and take it from there.

Title: Re: Weed control on Pasture
Post by: Buttermilk on February 04, 2018, 06:29:00 pm

You will also need to put some grass seed on the bald spots.