Herbs for My Horses...The Gardens


Flowers for My Friends...
Herbs for My Horses

The Gardens


For quite some time gardening has regularly engaged our lives for personal use and pleasure. We find this undertaking satisfying, and it continues to develop and progress. Always appreciating the beauty of a flower and the palate of an herb, the infatuation has transformed into something even more gratifying growing plants for the horses. Our horticultural design is never quite complete, and we are constantly adding more blooms to the landscape making possible the continuous bouquets of splendor for our family and friends. These blossoms are “Flowers for My Friends”, but we have to say the plants that are valued for flavor, scent, and therapeutic qualities for the most part will remain, “Herbs for My Horses”.

With the thoughts of spring right around the corner, views of the herb garden for the horses in union with ours have sprouted again, but this time germinating into something more; pen to paper creating from seed this campaign, “Herbs for My Horses”. With our philosophy on natural horse care, growing and utilizing herbs for them has always existed. At present, with the farm planning underway, we are ready to sow these seeds into reality, but first we embarked on a few experimental garden beds and hordes of extensive research.

As with any research, you run into inconsistent information. From this, we emphasize the importance of careful studies using all the resources available; books, internet and most significantly the professionals. This will construct an educated concept; therefore furnishing the best, most ecological and safest management possible for the horse. At the end of the day, making sound decisions and safe choices for the horse is the responsibility of the owner or caregiver.

Exercising the use of herbs is a serious venue; just because herbs are natural does not guarantee their safety. In learning about herbs for the horse world, we found it unfortunate that horses could be at risk because of the careless and unconsidered choices in herbal feeding. Misconceiving herbs as food is serious and sometimes fatal. Herbs are not food and feeding in this manner is extremely dangerous. Providing herbs to your equine is an enhancement, not a replacement for proper feeding programs or direction from a professional veterinarian. In addition, herbs are powerful, and acquiring an understanding of their abilities is vital in preventing the dangers associated with the mishandling of them. The usage of herbs has been studied for thousands of years, yet none of them are a cure all any more than the conventional drugs of modern day. But through knowledge they can provide advantages for your equine. Certain herbs are the origin of many drugs and their use can produce a similar outcome. Thus, the practice of utilizing herbs can be supportive or destructive.


Find a professional veterinarian and or equine nutritionist familiar with both herbs and drugs who can offer expert opinions and aid in your decisions on what herbs might be appropriate for your horse. Not all veterinarians are experienced in the use of herbs for natural care, so it may take some time to find one who can assist you. It is important to understand that herbs can sometimes do things that drugs cannot and sometimes they can do the same things, but then other times they cannot match the safety and effectiveness of certain modern day conventional drugs. Herbal preparations should not replace veterinary care, but can work in conjunction with medical aid. Better yet, the use of herbs can be practiced as preventative measures. Always have your horse examined by a professional veterinarian. In the event of illness or injury, get a diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan designed for your horse. Never diagnosis symptoms or treat unless you are qualified.

Conventional medicine is often clinical, but there are instances when alternative methods used in combination with conventional medicine for treatment can promote a healthy prognosis. Conventional medicines are prescribed to help with an illness or injury, thus they are reactive to the problem. However, even though herb applications can offer reactive treatments to medical problems, also, they can be administered as proactive measures. Trying to prevent is always better than trying to cure. It is important to keep in mind that not all herbs are alike. Some herbs relevant and safe for humans can pose problems or even death in horses. It is imperative to know which herbs are suitable for the individual horse before administering them. Discuss and choose herbs with your veterinarian, especially when used with prescribed medications because some herb and drug combinations are lethal. Whether used as a treatment or supplement, feeding herbs responsibly and prudently can provide horses with countless health benefits.

As herbivores, horses are born to forage freely on a variety of herbs and grasses. In the wild, horses will roam the land and graze about 20 hours a day covering an average of 20 – 25 miles seeking water, grasses and assorted vegetation. Nature is amazing, left in healthy pastures where herbs grow wild, horses instinctively know which plants are best to eat and when it is best not to eat them. With the limitations of pastures, not all flora within the boundaries will be safe. Healthy soil will reduce the poisonous plants but, no matter how we slice and dice it, grazing for the domesticated horse is limited and they are solely dependent upon owners or caregivers to provide their provisions. Know what is growing in your pastures. Everyone has situations in carving out their unique equine world, and businesses have catered to these conditions quite successfully with their commercial interest in mind. There are many viable options available to supply equines with essential nutrients and treatments. Whatever arrangement you patronize, the system will have elements of convenience as well as necessity. Not everyone is a gardener or has the capability to produce a more natural approach for the horse.  Nevertheless, with the following information, one can dabble while another can dive head on.



The GARDENS:

Having the opportunity to plant an assortment of quality vegetation suitable for horses is now in its early stages for us. Affording horses the freedom to forage the vegetation they desire and need, whenever their bodily urges, provides them mental and physical benefits. The ability to provide these advantages is quite fulfilling to us. Natural, economical and “green” are the objectives for our gardens and pursuing this aim spun the decision to integrate equine garden with human garden, thus creating the “Freedom” Garden for our horses. Feeding from the land, maintaining a balance between growth and consumption and discovering ways to conserve is rewarding in so many ways. One such gratifying practice is contributing to healthy grazing in the freedom garden and therefore providing proper nutrition and diet essential for healthy happy horses. Joining the two gardens, human and equine into one, along with the separate gardens contained within it, the “Freedom” Garden brings the discussion that follows on its purpose, preparation, and effect.



This is the first of a three part series on herbs. The other two blogs are near completion, and will be posted consecutively after they are concluded. Each blog covers a singular focus from design and groundwork to various vegetation definitions, and finally to the preparation and uses of remedial applications.  Our goal was to  supply our approach and experiences from a beginning position to a point of fruition. It brought us a knowledgeable view on the process; hence, these blogs turned out rather lengthy. We are always open for comments or corrections; if you have any, please contact us. Let's grow on...





First Things First:




Taking into account a fundamental characteristic of the horse, the instinct to roam and graze, encouraged the design to plant the vegetation in several different areas. This layout persuades horses to travel the entire field and not collect in one section, therefore avoiding the damage of overgrazing in any particular area. This one practice of grazing management allows time for plants to rebound, generate strength and engender new growth. In the pastures, multiple grasses with certain field herbs added make a diverse mixture of forage for the horses. Select hardy and safe vegetation apt for abundant grazing; start by considering the plants’ growing cycles. With several grass choices blended together, they can be randomly scattered throughout the field. These freely planted grasses allow ad lib grazing which is wonderful for the horses. One must keep in mind certain vegetation need more controlled and contained devises due to the risk they can inflict on horses. For this reason and to prevent overgrazing, a plan for these "controlled" herbs planted in several sections developed into another garden within the “Freedom” Garden, called the “Fence Line” Garden. This garden follows the outside fence line of the pasture sanctioning the horse’s access. Understanding that some herbs must remain out of the horses’ reach, since there is some vegetation for our consumption which can be deadly if ingested by horses; another garden is born within the “Fence Line” Garden called the “Restricted” Garden. Under sufficient conditions, horses normally stay away from toxic plants, but accepting as true the aphorism, prevent vs. trying to cure, we take no chances.

For anything to flourish, it requires the proper environment to do so. The closer you maintain a safe, natural environment for the entity, the more triumphant the result. Developing knowledge of the land and supplying it with the appropriate nutrient levels provides benefits to the recipient whether it is plant, horse or human. Nutrients in soil need to be in balance and are essential for vigorous, healthy plants. This topic requires in-depth discussions so, saving that for a future blog, this herbs series will remain on the design and yield of planting and some basic administration of certain herbs to horses. In staying “green”, the cycle of the plant suggests herbs are only going to be as good as the soil in which they grow; therefore, management needs to follow the essential principles of organic agriculture in soil building, conservation and pest management.

Plants grown in depleted soils have a reduced nutrient content thus, we strive to be attentive to soil conditions and what we add into the soil; the plant’s food becomes food for horse and human. Take the time and obtain a soil sample. For a nominal charge, the local Cooperative Extension Office will analyze it and report the levels of nutrients present. They can advise on the proper procedure in collecting the soil. Other testing centers maybe available. If a university is nearby, they may provide the analysis, or one can check for other reputable research testing labs. This step is the beginning in supplying a nutritionally balanced soil, which will encourage growth of vigorous fresh plants for the horses to graze on, benefit from and enjoy.


Prepare and Share:


For healthy pastures and gardens seek expert advice that is usually free and abundant in the livestock feed and seed stores, garden centers, from local farmers and on the internet; free aid that is truly priceless. It will supply advantages through information, soil preparation and the balancing of nutrient levels to name a few. Have a plan for your garden and design a layout.

OUR GARDEN LAYOUT - The “Freedom” Garden consists of lush pastures and two gardens, the “Fence Line” and the “Restricted”.  Layout the design of the two gardens with string, hoses, rocks, etc, just something to indicate the areas. Choose a planting area away from equine reach for the “Restricted” Garden"; account for an extended neck.  Establish the planting beds by removing any unwanted grasses, plants, weeds, etc and cultivate the soil to a depth of 6”. Mix compost (organic waste…manure; that one is easy) and any necessary top dressings into the soil until well blended; composting returns nutrients into the soil allowing the cycle of life to continue. Rake the areas smooth, water and let rest for 1- 2 weeks. If any undesirable seedlings sprout, let them grow to 2” tall then pull or hoe them out and rake the soil smooth again. Now you are ready to sow your plants.

Consider the herbs for planting carefully. Doing so provides the horses nutritionally rich sources fortified with the vitamins, antioxidants and minerals they require for a healthier, more contented existence. Several of the more common herbs that grow readily in meadows and pastures usually naturalize successfully in a garden. Select vegetation for their appeal, nutritional and therapeutic values to horses. Consider the plant’s growing habits such as height, and whether it is recurrent. Several forms are available for purchasing; seeds, seedlings, established plants so, choose the course of action best suited to your situation. For pasture seeds and garden bedding plants, sow in the early spring after all danger of frost has passed, in early summer or late fall where winters are mild.


Knowing your planting zone will provide precise planting information that is essential. For pasture seeds, mix as one the different seeds chosen and scatter evenly over the designated area. Lightly rake seeds into soil or cover seeds with soil no deeper than ¼”. Tamp soil gently to ensure good soil-seed contact, water soil gently keeping it moist for 15 days to encourage germination. For the garden beds, follow the specific instructions according to the plant’s individual packing label for they will differ with between the assorted plants. Horses need to remain off these areas until plantings are well established. Keep everything watered and watch it all flourish. Once deep-rooted; share the harvest with equine family and their friends.






A Bit on Pasture Grasses:





Numerous pasture grasses are available to purchase for horses, but their ability to grow varies with temperature, light, soil conditions, land formations, etc. Determine the best-suited grasses and/or legumes to plant in the pasture for producing successful results and a nutritional harvest for the horses. Some types follow; consult with experts to help with this task.







PASTURE GRASSES:

Bahia Grass
Bermudagrass
Bluegrass
Buffalograss
Crabgrass
Dallisgrass
Fescue (Tall)
Festolium
Lovegrass
Native Grasses
Orchardgrass
Ryegrass Annual
Ryegrass Perennial - Timothy

FORAGE and LEGUMES:
(Planted in the “Fence Line” Garden, these forages should be controlled.)

Alfalfa
Clovers
Lab Lab
Kale
Lespedeza
Millets
Oats
Rape (Canola)
Vetch
Winter Peas

For the most efficient use of the pastures, a program to manage grazing needs implementing. Horses are grazing machines and can over-graze a field if not properly controlled. Arrive at a plan to limit access while maintaining proper care of the horse and the fields. Having two small lots and rotating the time spent in either will help the food source go farther. Grasses/legumes, for the most part, are planted in the pastures, but many are in the “Fence Line” Garden for control purposes. In exchange for this, mixing different pasture grass seeds with a few field herbs such as calendula, dandelion, fennel, mint, and Queen Anne’s lace for pasture planting will truly afford horses a variety of healthy and palatable forages. As with herbs, some grasses are harmful and even fatal for horses. A blog on pasture preparation and planting is in the future.

Do Not Plant the Grasses Below / Avoid for Horses:
  • Sorghum
  • Sudangrass
  • Johnsongrass
  • Sorghum-Sudangrass hybrids

Horses can develop paralysis and urinary disorders from grazing these species. In addition, it is unsafe to feed hay from these grasses.

  • Kentucky 31 Fescue or any of its varieties containing endophytes are extremely toxic to pregnant mares. It is said that there are safe varieties of Fescue available for horses and one such grass, MaxQ, is noted as an excellent Tall Fescue pasture grass. Mississippi State University tested pastures planted with just MaxQ Tall Fescue and found no symptoms of fescue toxicosis. Use only an endophyte-free fescue for equine grazing.








Design of the Beds in the “Freedom” Garden:



The most practical solution is to establish a quality forage pasture surrounded by an herb bed. Planting the herbs on the outside of the fence line permits the horses free access; but with boundaries to avoid trampling and overgrazing.

Whether there are several interlocking paddocks, one pasture or even a small-designated area, the possibilities are endless on arrangements available for the gardens. Many possibilities will arise when you focus to limit the purchase of processed goods, and instead choose those capable of giving back to the earth and aiming for “green”.Our design is a continuous “Fence Line” Garden approximately 8ft wide (12ft wide in certain areas) with an array of vegetation planted purposefully throughout. Knowing the mature height and perimeter of the plantings determines the placement in relationship to the fence. Plants that need a more controlled access, sunlight amounts and those that reappear every year also affects the position they hold within the garden. Edible vegetables for human and horse consumption are scattered along the beds. Strategically planted for controlling foraging access, some vegetation is planted close to the fence while other vegetation is planted further away, developing a “No Reach Zone” for the horses. These segments are in the “Restricted” Garden and are in the 12ft wider beds along the outside border of the fence line. The plants in the “Restricted” Garden are conveniently accessible by us and are the herbs, vegetables and flowers we command and or consume along with the plants horses cannot ingest. Edible vegetables for human and horse are grown in the “Restricted” Garden intentionally, for control purposes and are a wonderful benefit for both. These are just some of the applications used in managing the “Fence Line” Garden. See blog, "Treat with Respect" for information concerning some plants horses can and cannot eat.

Depending upon the extent of the layout, it may take quite some time and effort to establish and maintain the garden for the horses. Periodically, the beds need overhauling with nutrients, cleaning up, trimming, and mulching, but the outcome is an advantage, which is rewarding to many. The experimental beds are underway as a pilot and with plans in hand. Soon we will continue with and look forward to the next steps for growing the “Freedom” Garden.


Tips from the Trail:

  • A split rail fence approximately 4ft high for the pasture works best.
  • Plants need to be well rooted before allowing the horses access to them.
  • Keeping the beds weed free gives the plants a much better growing opportunity. However, allowing certain volunteer weeds to grow makes good alternative grazing unless of course they are toxic or overwhelming the beds.
  • Planting groups of the same plant in odd numbers creates a more natural look.
  • Determine the safe and restricted plants for horses and plant in beds accordingly. Then, follow sunlight requirements before all other necessities of the vegetation when deciding location within the beds. Know the full sun, semi-shade and shade areas of the garden.
  • Plant shorter vegetation that is safe and allowed as free access for the horses right along the outside fence line of the pastures.
  • The above arrangement of plantings is broken up with a grouping of two shrub types that are incredibly safe and extremely healthy for horses to nibble. Grown directly on the outside fence line as a hedge adding excellent benefits for the horses are the Hawthorn Crataegus oxycantha and the Dog Rose Rosa canina. Plant the hedge as groupings of three; alternating between the two shrub types – one grouping consists of two Dog Rose shrubs divided by one Hawthorn in between them. These hedges are not continuous along the fence line, but planted along the fence in occasional groupings usually in front of the “Restricted” Garden. This allows Dog Rose to climb the top fence post and produce a crown freely, but controlling the plant through trimming its base, both height and width. Thus, permitting horses free access to shorter vegetation planted in the areas beneath the shrubs.
  • The development of the gardens evolves over years so, first plant vegetation desired to be extensive and far-reaching providing the space required for full maturity.
  • Plant as many different types of perennial vegetation possible; eliminates replanting.
  • The safe and more palatable the herb, the more groupings should be planted. This will help to prevent any one plant from being overeaten.
  • The controlled or more “restricted” plant, the fewer groupings should be planted; examples are rosemary, lavender and wormwood, yarrow, thyme and sage. These herbs are quite powerful, containing volatile oils like thujone and thymol. Horses normally would only choose to eat limited quantities when necessary, but too much consumption of these herbs for too long can cause toxicity issues. These herbs are in the “No Reach Zone” of the “Restricted” Garden.
  • Each herb variety has properties determining the best application of its use. In addition, these individualities establish the appropriate times to harvest the plant for the intended purpose. Research will help indicate the times for harvesting based on the projected application, and the properties of each part of the plant.
  • When trimming your plants for maintenance, thinly spread cut herbs that are safe over the grass in the pasture so that they dry out in the sun. Watch the horses enjoy this unexpected delight.

Go Green Tips:





  • Want a smaller, controlled garden? There are possible items around the farm to reuse as containers capable of accommodating the plants:

old tires
feed/water buckets
wheel barrows
troughs / bathtubs
barrels
fence posts / logs / poles
and there is likely much, much more


Any Go Green Ideas?

Last Series

“A good farmer in our times has to know more about things than a man in any other profession. He has to be a biologist, a veterinary, a mechanic, a botanist, a horticulturist and many other things. He has to have an open mind, eager and ready to absorb new knowledge, new ideas and new ideals.”
Louis Bromfield