Fall Has Arrived!

Autumn has arrived and after the brutal summer that most of us experienced this year, I think just about everyone is ready to welcome the pumpkins, changing leaves and cooler weather!

While the weather is perfect for riding, it also means that we should be focused on doing some of those chores that we have been putting off, especially with winter around the corner.

Now is the time to focus on getting your pastures ready for next year. Are your fences in good order and ready for a winter storm?

What about in the barn? Are your blankets readily accessible and hopefully they were washed before you stored them for the summer. If you are able to store large amounts of hay, have you already done so?

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to get your fall maintenance done!

Autumn Pasture Maintenance:

· Reseed pastures in early fall for cool-season grasses. The month you reseed will depend upon your climate and rainfall.

· Continue to mow when you see seed heads forming. Dropped seeds will regrow but mowing before the seeds drop will reduce the amount that grows back.

· Weeds can be sprayed with an herbicide at this time.

· Another application of nitrogen may be added, depending on the climate. Consult with your ag agent.

· Spread composted manure.

· Check fencing for broken boards or rotted posts which may need to be replaced before a winter storm knocks it down.

· If you have not had your agriculture agent out in more than a year, this is a good time to have them out and test your soil and come up with a plan.

Autumn Barn Maintenance:

· Clean out areas where manure and other organic material has accumulated, particularly in high traffic areas. This will reduce the chance of these areas becoming muddy in winter and spring.

· Freshen up the footing in high traffic areas as well to reduce muddy conditions later in the seasons.

· Clean barn gutters.

· Check electrical wiring for rodent damage.

· Remove cobwebs from ceilings and rafters.

· Blankets and sheets should be taken from storage and be ready to use.

· Plans should be in place for caring for your senior horses in the coming winter months.

· If you are in a climate where you are able to purchase and store hay and grain for the winter, this should be completed by the end of September.

· Pipes should be wrapped in preparation of freezing temperatures.

What are your Halloween plans? Do you like to dress up your horse? Kudos to Leyna of Grey Horse Candle Company. Check out her video on her facebook page of her Headless Horseman doing barn chores! Facebook

And check out these cute Halloween sweatshirts from www.twodonkeysandahorse.etsy.com

I hope you get lots of good riding weather in before it becomes too cold!

Tally Ho!