Articles on forages, animals, and grazing systems
Beef
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Extension Forage Specialist
University of Kentucky
Phone: (859) 257-3358
Fax: (859) 323-1952
Email: raysmith1@uky.edu
Grazing at too low of a height causes overgrazing and decreases stand productivity and longevity. The general recommendation is to remove livestock once pastures are grazed down to an average height of 3 to 4 inches. Although, in pastures with mixed species, it is best to follow this recommendation to avoid overgrazing and reducing desirable species, ideal grazing height can vary depending on the forage species. Below is a table with the recommended height to remove animals from a pasture:
Species |
Start Grazing |
End Grazing |
Orchardgrass |
8-10” |
3-4” |
Kentucky Bluegrass |
8-10” |
1-2” |
Tall Fescue |
8-10” |
3-4” |
Alfalfa |
Bud Stage |
2-3” |
Annual Ryegrass |
8-10” |
2-3” |
Bermudagrass |
6-8” |
1-2” |
Other Cool-Season Grasses/Legumes |
8-10” |
3-4” |
Warm-Season Annual Grasses |
20-24” |
8-10” |
Warm-Season Native Grasses |
18-22” |
8-10” |
