As the cooler months approach, farmers and horse owners alike know that autumn is the season of preparation. Pasture and paddock management now will determine how well your land supports livestock through the winter and how quickly it bounces back come spring. From reseeding tired ground to checking fencing and gateways, a little effort now pays off in healthier fields, safer animals, and smoother routines.
Assessing the Pasture
Start by walking your fields and paddocks with a critical eye. Look for bare patches, compacted ground, or areas where weeds have taken over. Autumn is a great time to reseed, as the soil still retains warmth but the risk of drought is lower than in summer. A quick harrow before reseeding helps break up thatch and improve seed-to-soil contact.
When choosing grass seed, think about your animals’ needs. Hardy ryegrass mixes are often best for grazing livestock, while horse paddocks benefit from timothy or fescue blends that can withstand regular hoof traffic. Don’t forget to rest newly seeded areas until growth is well established.
Reseeding and Soil Health
Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy pasture. After reseeding, support growth with the right feed. incredigrow Nourish & Nurture (Chempak Calcium) helps balance soil nutrients and strengthen plant cell walls, giving new grass the resilience it needs to withstand grazing pressure. If your pasture has struggled in recent seasons, applying a calcium boost can make a noticeable difference.
For fields needing an extra kick, incredigrow Bigger & Better (Chempak No. 4) provides a balanced feed that encourages stronger root systems and lush top growth. Applied correctly, it supports both reseeded patches and established grass, ensuring paddocks stay green well into autumn.
Fencing Checks
While tending to pasture, don’t overlook fencing. Autumn storms and wetter ground often reveal weaknesses in posts and rails. Walk the perimeter of every field and check:
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Are posts firmly in place, with no signs of rot at the base?
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Are rails, wires, or tape secure and free of sagging?
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Are gates hanging level and closing easily?
Regular checks reduce the risk of escapes and injuries. A weekend spent mending a few posts is far better than chasing livestock on a cold, wet evening.
Gateways and High-Traffic Areas
Gateways take the brunt of hoof and vehicle traffic, and in autumn, wet conditions can quickly turn them into mud baths. To reduce poaching, consider:
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Installing hardcore or rubber matting in gateways.
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Rerouting traffic where possible to spread wear.
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Keeping hedges trimmed to maximise light and airflow, helping the ground dry quicker.
Improving gateways now saves time, labour, and the health of your pasture later in winter.
Beyond the Field
Autumn is also a time when many smallholding owners look after more than just grass. If you’ve got trees or olives in containers, for example, autumn feeding helps them set strong roots before winter. Growth Technology Olive Focus is specially designed to support olive trees, keeping foliage healthy and growth consistent in cooler weather. Even if your focus is livestock, giving attention to garden or yard plants now ensures everything thrives into next year.
Preparing for the Season Ahead
Taking a proactive approach to pasture and paddock care each autumn is an investment in your animals and your land. By reseeding tired patches, nourishing the soil, and shoring up fences and gateways, you create a healthier, safer environment that will withstand the challenges of winter.
Whether you’re managing a few paddocks or larger fields, the combination of practical groundwork and targeted products like Chempak’s incredigrow Nourish & Nurture, incredigrow Bigger & Better, and Growth Technology Olive Focus ensures your land and plants are well cared for. With preparation sorted, you can head into winter confident your fields are ready for whatever the season brings.
