If you keep your horse out on the field, and the grass is the main source of food, then it is absolutely essential that you ensure that the grass is high-quality, rich in nutrients, and well maintained.
There are many ways in which horse owners maintain and take care of their horse pasture, making sure different patches of grass get to rest and recover. But the truth is, if you want your horse pasture to be high quality, you’re going to need some fertilizer.
Now, not just any fertilizer can be used. As the grass will be a source of food for your horses, you need to ensure that the soil is healthy and the grass is rich. This is why you should use fertilizers specifically designed for horse pastures, as they will be 100% safe for your horses, and they’ll have the right kind of formula for your needs.
But…which fertilizers for horse pastures? After all, there is a wide range of product options in the market, and it can be challenging to identify which ones are truly the best!
Well, to help you out, we’ve put together a list with the top 10 best fertilizers for horse pastures, with full reviews, that we absolutely recommend. Along with a buyer’s guide, some tips, and some commonly asked questions.
Sounds good? Then let’s get right into it!
Best Fertilizer For Horse Pasture
Scotts Turf Builder Thick’R Lawn Sun & Shade
[amazon fields=”B074P1578H” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
At the top of our list, we have the Scotts Turf Builder Thick’R Lawn Sun & Shade, which is one of the most popular and highly recommended fertilizers for horse pasture, from a reliable and well-known brand. This product is a 3-in-1 solution, with seed, fertilizer, and soil improver, covering every need!
It improves the soil, with self-improving features, and allows for thicker and greener pastures, richer and healthier overall. It essentially fills in the gaps, with the use of the grass seed that it contains, and that’s why it grows thicker than ever.
For the application, you first have to prepare the soil appropriately, by mowing it to the height of around 2 inches, or lower. You also have to remove all of the debris and dead grass, so that the top layer of soil is loosened, and ready to absorb the solution all the better.
Once it’s ready, you can apply the solution with a spreader. During the first two weeks, you should then regularly water, so that the soil is kept moist.
You should see results, on average, within 35 days!
Pros
- Three in one product
- It thickens the grass (by filling in the gaps)
- Improves the soil
Cons
- It has an undefined NPK proportion
[amazon box=”B074P1578H”]
The Andersons Professional PGF Complete
[amazon fields=”B0822WM7YH” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
Second, on our list, we have an excellent horse pasture fertilizer, recommended by many customers that use it regularly, known as The Andersons Professional PGF Complete. This product is a well-rounded fertilizer, able to supply all of the necessary nutrients to your pasture.
One of the best things about it is that the feed comes in superfine particles, which means they deliver double the particles per square foot, allowing you to get the most out of it! It also has a slow-release build formula, so as a general rule, the nutrients will be at work within the soil and grass for up to 8 weeks!
Overall, it fights low fertility, improves the health of the soil, and increases the number of nutrients within the grass.
For the application, you first have to ensure that the pasture field is completely dry (so choose a sunny couple of days!) Once you have applied it, in order to help the particles move into the turf canopy, it is recommended that you water a minimum of 0.2 inches. You also need to be careful when you next mow, so that you’re not removing the particles!
Pros
- NPK proportion of 16-4-8
- The slow-release formula allows for long-lasting effects
- It nourishes the soul for extra nutrients
Cons
- A bit more expensive than other similar products
[amazon box=”B0822WM7YH”]
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed
[amazon fields=”B01N03AC7M” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
Another amazing fertilizer product by the Scotts Turf Builder brand is the WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed fertilizer, which is highly recommended for use during the winter, which is usually when horse pastures suffer the most.
Essentially, this product acts as a needed boost during the fall and winter, giving your pasture the right supplements to continue to grow and thrive, despite the harsh weather conditions.
The formula acts to repair the damage and lets the grass recover during the winter, hardening the roots and boosting the absorption of water and nutrients.
For the application, fall is the best season, around a month or so before the winter hits. You should start applying the product from the perimeter, and then fill in the middle of the pasture. Make sure to read the instructions carefully!
Pros
- Overall best horse pasture fertilizer for the winter season
- Strengthens the roots of the grass
- Improves the absorption of water and nutrients
Cons
- NPK percentage isn’t defined
[amazon box=”B01N03AC7M”]
Super Juice All in One Soluble Supplement
[amazon fields=”B07N14CBS9″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Super Juice All in One Soluble Supplement horse pasture fertilizer is another highly recommended product, great for getting your pasture to thrive.
It is an all-in-one product, meaning you get everything you need without having to use other products on the side. It comes with an NPK proportion of 14-2-4, and it helps improve the growth of the grass, for a thicker and richer pasture.
The nitrogen included in the formula makes the grass healthier than ever, and the 4% of iron makes the grass extra green so that it also looks it!
For the application, the product comes in a dry mix. You have to add some water to it, and then spray it over the pasture with a hose. It can fertilize an entire acre, or two acres if you use it at half the strength. The product should start taking effect within 1 to 4 hours, and you will start to see the results after 5 to 12 days.
Pros
- All-in-one product – convenient and efficient
- Improves the overall health of the grass, allowing it to thrive
- The formula contains iron, making the grass extra green in color
Cons
- Some customers dislike the dry mix, as it can cause dust when used
[amazon box=”B07N14CBS9″]
Milorganite Slow Release Nitrogen Fertilizer
[amazon fields=”B07RD3QS7V” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Milorganite brand is highly respected and recommended, as it has over 90 years of experience, and has proven itself to be effective and reliable. This Slow Release Nitrogen Fertilizer, is formulated with organic ingredients, helping improve the soil structure, so that grass can grow healthier than ever, perfect for horses.
Usually, when the grass is dying out and going yellow, it is because there is a very little amount of Nitrogen reaching the roots, so this product has a good amount of Nitrogen in the formula to remedy this, with a slow-release constant flow of Nitrogen fed straight to the root system. I
t has an NPK content of 5-2-0, and it also includes 4% of iron to make the grass look greener and healthier than ever.
For the application, it is recommended that you use this product around four times a year. Alternatively, use it during the fall season, in a bigger quantity. The good thing is that it has no expiration date, as long as you store it in a dry place, so it’s a great product to buy in bulk and always have on hand!
Pros
- Slow-release formula, feeding Nitrogen straight to the root system for better grass
- 4% of iron for healthier and greener grass
- Organiz and completely safe for horses, children, and other pets
Cons
- It gives off a repellent odor
[amazon box=”B07RD3QS7V”]
X-Seed Land Over-Seeder Pasture Forage Seed
[amazon fields=”B004NS7UEY” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The X-Seed Land Over-Seeder Pasture Forage Seed is yet another great option in our list of top horse pasture fertilizers, this one serving especially well for pastures that are old, and in need of rejuvenation.
This product gives the soil a boost, enhancing germination, and developing longer and stronger roots so that the grass can grow thicker and healthier. It is completely Endophyte-free, and it works wonders for bringing high-traffic worn-down areas back to life so that they are green and rich in nutrients once more.
It also gives the soil a higher resistance, so that it can remain green and lush for longer, even when tread upon regularly.
For the application, one bag of this product can cover up to one acre of land. The best time of year to use it is in early spring, a few months before the horses are let out for the summer, so that the grass can be prepared to withstand the traffic, and is full of nutrients. Results should be visible after around 5 weeks or so.
Pros
- Ideal for old and worn down pastures
- Enhances germination, with longer and stronger roots
- Makes the pasture more resistant, so that it stays healthier for longer
Cons
- Takes longer than most for results to be visible
[amazon box=”B004NS7UEY”]
Walt’s Elemental Sulfur Pellets
[amazon fields=”B00RZR6AAK” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Walt’s Elemental Sulfur Pellets are a highly popular option for horse pasture fertilizer, as they boost the rate of protein formation, making the grass healthier and better for the horse’s consumption.
The active ingredient within the formula is 100% sulfur, which works by stimulating the growth of the grass, and increasing the nutrient absorption so that it is also richer and healthier.
The sulfur also stops the grass from going yellow, so it stays green all year round! Plus, the sulfur lowers the pH of the soil, which can be very good for allowing grass to thrive all the more.
For the application, there is no preparation or mixing required. All you have to do is spread the pellets around the pasture, in a professional manner, and they’ll start to take effect! Fast and easy for convenience.
Pros
- Easy to use, fast application
- Ideal for acidic soils
- Green and healthy pasture all year round
Cons
- Only has sulfur within the formula
[amazon box=”B00RZR6AAK”]
Urea 99+% Pure Commercial Grade Granular Fertilizer
[amazon fields=”B0769D5Y5H” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Urea 99+% Pure Commercial Grade Granular Fertilizer is perfect for getting your horse pasture back on track, with a focus on getting Nitrogen to the root system, so that the grass stays green all year round, and is able to grow strong and rich in nutrients.
In order to ensure the Nitrogen is released into the roots, the fertilizer is granular, and it very quickly allows the grass to grow better than ever. This is especially suited to horse pastures that have begun to go yellow, or that are struggling to recover over time.
For the application, the product needs to be mixed with water and diluted. This way, it won’t be acidic or alkaline and will be ready for the pasture.
Pros
- High Nitrogen content, perfect for greener and healthier grass
- Granular formulation so that it goes straight to the roots
- Easy to use, soluble in water
Cons
- The formula is just Nitrogen
[amazon box=”B0769D5Y5H”]
Jack’s Professional Water Soluble Fertilizer
[amazon fields=”B008JSIKCU” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The Jack’s Professional Water Soluble Fertilizer is another excellent product option, especially as the brand is well known for blending traditional and new methods, in order to achieve the best fertilizing effects possible.
With an NPK proportion of 25-5-5, this fertilizer provides you with healthier pasture fields and thicker grass growth. Nitrogen is the main nutrient, enhancing the color and growth, with Phosphorus strengthening the roots and Potassium sustaining the growth so that it remains healthy all year round.
There are also plenty of micronutrients added into the formula, in order to boost the richness of the grass, so that it is ideal for your horses.
For the application, you must first apply water and miz. Warm water should do the trick, as the product is completely soluble. It can then be used in all manner of professional spreading applications, to cover the entire pasture and reap the effects.
Pros
- Continuous liquid feed and good area coverage
- Good NPK proportion
- A blend of ingredients make the formula incredibly efficient in many different aspects
Cons
- No significant downsides to be note
[amazon box=”B008JSIKCU”]
EcoPure Natural Liquid Fertilizer
[amazon fields=”B004FGBLCG” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
Last, but not least, on our list of top best horse pasture fertilizers, we have the EcoPure Natural Liquid Fertilizer. This is a bio-enhanced product, with an NPK of 16-4-8, containing a good balance of different ingredients.
It has Nitrogen, in order to make the grass greener, and overall healthier, plus phosphate and potassium, so that the roots are stronger and the grass is able to thrive all year round. When used, this product increases the growth rate of the grass, and makes it greener and lusher, for a healthier appearance.
For the application, it should be mixed with water and used regularly every month. The soil should also be thoroughly watered after every application, to ensure it is properly absorbed by the root system of the grass.
Pros
- Great NPK proportion and ingredients
- Provides your pasture with greener and healthier grass
- Bio-enhanced formula, highly effective all year round
Cons
- Requires a more regular usage, compared to similar products
[amazon box=”B004FGBLCG”]
Buyer’s Guide
If you’re new to the world of fertilizing horse pastures, you might be a little overwhelmed by the many different products available, and what they each do or do not do, especially as there is a lot of technical information, with formulas, ingredients, and more.
But don’t worry! Choosing the right horse pasture fertilizer shouldn’t be that hard, all you need to do is have a list of the main factors to take into consideration, and tick them off as you go, looking for a product that covers all your needs and preferences.
To help you out, here are the factors that we recommend you take into consideration when choosing:
The Brand
You shouldn’t blindly follow a brand, without first checking out the product, but as a general rule, you will find better products within well-known and trusted brands, especially those that are recommended by other customers who regularly use them!
The Formula
The formula is absolutely essential, as it determines not only the ingredients within the fertilizer but also their form. Some formulas are a dry mix, while others are soluble and to be mixed with water. Some are granular so that they go straight to the root system, which is quite recommended for horse pastures.
Make sure you check what the formula is designed for, and what all of the ingredients do or bring to the mix.
The NPK Proportions
When we talk about the NPK proportion of a horse pasture fertilizer, we are talking about the amount of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (which are what the three letters of NPK stand for). So, for example, if a fertilizer has an NPK of 14-2-4, then it has 14% of Nitrogen, 2% of Phosphorus, and 4% of Potassium.
It is said that the best and most complete fertilizers have all three of these ingredients, and therefore it is recommended that you look out for products with an NPK proportion indicated in the description.
Most fertilizers will also then have added micronutrients, in order to ensure that the grass is rich and healthy for your horses.
Some fertilizers, however, only feature one ingredient (usually one of the big three in the NPK). This can sometimes be better, depending on the specific needs of the soil in your horse pasture.
The Application
For convenience, you should look for horse pasture fertilizers that are easy and quick to apply, with visible results after not too long a wait. Different fertilizers are applied to the pasture in different ways, so make sure you double-check this in their product description before you make a decision and purchase them!
Tips For Managing your Horse Pasture
Managing and maintaining your horse pasture is absolutely essential, and one of the most important tasks if you want your horses to consume healthy grass, and thrive in their environment.
Here are some of our main tips for managing the pasture, so that it’s as best as it can be!
- Alternate the horse grazing period, so that the pasture has a chance to recover in-between seasons or periods of time, and plan the fertilizing in accordance with this
- Analyze the soil to best figure out its needs, so that you can choose the most appropriate fertilizer product
- Look out for weeds and other plants, and make sure to mow the pasture when needed
- Spread the fertilizer out over the pasture in a professional manner, for an evenly healthy grass
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popularly asked questions, which you might also have on the subject of fertilizing a horse pasture, with the answers:
Can You Fertilize The Pasture While The Horses Are Out?
The answer to this is no. In fact, you should never ever have horses out on the pasture while you are fertilizing. It is essential that the horses are moved somewhere else while fertilization takes place, and that you wait the appropriate amount of time before letting them out onto the field again.
How Do You Improve A Horse Pasture?
In order to improve a horse’s pasture, the best thing you can do is ensure the grass is well-taken care of and fertilized so that it grows healthy and green, and full of nutrients for the horses. Make sure the soil is fertile and maintained, keep an eye out for weeds or unwanted plants, and manage the grazing pattern so that the pasture is able to recover from time to time.
How Soon Can Horses Be Let Out Onto The Pasture After Fertilizing?
Horses should be moved to another field while the pasture is being fertilized, and they should then be kept away for the right amount of time until it is safe for them to return. They basically cannot graze on the pasture until the fertilizer has properly dissolved into the soil, and is not going to be directly consumed by the horses accidentally.
Most fertilizer products will come with instructions on how long you should wait before horses are allowed back on the pasture, so make sure to follow the specific instructions of each product carefully.
If there aren’t any instructions, then the general rule is to wait for it to rain so that there is about half an inch of water on the pasture, or alternatively, wait for an average of 2 to 3 days, so that the fertilizer has had time to be absorbed by the soil completely.
Can Fertilizer Harm The Horses?
Most horse pasture fertilizers are 100% completely safe for the horses, but it is necessary for you to double-check this, and to test a small patch of pasture beforehand, just to be on the safe side.
This is because some fertilizers can be harmful to horses, in different ways. Always check to be on the safe side and switch to a different fertilizer product or brand if necessary.
How Much Fertilizer Do You Need For An Acre Of Pasture?
As a general rule, you need around 50 pounds of fertilizer in order to properly cover an acre of pasture. However, this can depend on the type of fertilizer, the nutrients within the formula, and the condition of the pasture itself!
Which Is The Safest Type Of Fertilizer For Horses?
As a general rule, organic fertilizers are the safest for horses, and for all other animals, as they are the most natural and non-toxic. However, the horses should still be removed from the pasture while the fertilizer is being applied, and you should still wait for the appropriate amount of time before they are allowed to return!
Do I Have To Mow My Horse’s Pasture?
This depends mostly on your pasture, but as a general rule, you should be mowing the pasture regularly so that it is better maintained, and the grass is able to grow healthier and thicker.
Summary
It is very important for your horse pasture to be well maintained and managed, so that it is healthy, rich, and thriving, in order to provide your horses with the right nutrients.
For this, the best option is to use horse pasture fertilizer, as it will give the pasture the right kind of boost so that the grass can grow healthier than ever! You can go through our list of the 10 best horse pasture fertilizers, to choose the one most suited to your needs, or use our small buyer’s guide to pick your own!
