[Rob73]

Hi all,
Just acquired 4.5 acres, now the field will need some work to get rid of the rushes, I want to top it, the grass and rushes are about 3ft - 4ft and I do not think it would be good for hay (plus I do not have the equipment to make hay), is it ok to top it down to about 1ft or will the cuttings kill off what's left.

Thanks

Rob

[SallyintNorth]

Don't know what your plans are for the field, but don't forget that rushes make great shelter -and shade- for sheep, especially lambs in a wet, windy Spring.

If you can use a flail topper it'll mash the stalks more than a blade, which'll help it get incorporated. 

Whether the cuttings will choke the grass depends on how thick the rushes are, how windy the spot is, etc.  If you can see grass through and between the rushes, and the rushes aren't thick up higher than your waist, it'll probably be fine. 

Just realised you're topping 3-4' grass too.. Can you get some cattle on to graze it? 

[Rob73]

Thanks, rushes verses grass is about 50 / 50, but until I can get onto the field to top it down it's difficult to see.

I am currently working away so will only be able to get on the field at the weekends.

[Foobar]

You might be best to just get someone to cut it and bale it and take it away, then you can start with a blank canvas.

[UPoneacre]

You might be best to just get someone to cut it and bale it and take it away, then you can start with a blank canvas.

That's just what we did with our field when we moved here, same problem/height, but no rushes just tough old cocksfoot grass. Luckily after I'd cut it our neighbour kindly baled it and took it away.
It might be worth looking at topping that height grass etc in two stages otherwise it'd be hard work for your topper, depending on what you're using, of course.

[Foobar]

I was thinking that that quantity of cut grass lying on the field will take longer to rot down and so will impinge the new grass growth.

[SallyintNorth]

I was thinking that that quantity of cut grass lying on the field will take longer to rot down and so will impinge the new grass growth.

Aye, hence my asking if he could get some cattle on to graze it

[Marches Farmer]

Can you find someone with native breeds - Highland, Galloway, Shetland, etc.?  Cutting material that long and leaving it to rot will impede the growth of healthy new grass.  so baling and carting away would be best for this year, perhaps chain harrow to let in some light and air.