Grass with a low growing point

What is the growing point of a grass plant?

If we take a closer look at a grass plant, we can see that it is made up of several different parts. First, the plant has roots that anchor it in the soil and enable it to absorb moisture and nutrients needed for growth. Just above the ground, the stem develops, from which the leaves (grass blades) emerge. Depending on the grass species, the stem may be red or white in colour. The first thickened section of the plant is the growing point. This is where the grass plant stores its nutrients.

Why is a low growing point important?

The height of the growing point varies between grass varieties. If the growing point remains undamaged after mowing or grazing, the grass plant can regrow quickly. However, if the growing point is removed or damaged during mowing or grazing, the plant requires a longer recovery period. Because horses graze grass very close to the ground, it is important that horse pastures contain grass varieties with a low growing point.

What are the consequences of slow regrowth?

Grass that regrows slowly creates opportunities for weeds and undesirable grass species to become established. As a result, the quality of the sward, as well as its palatability and feed value, declines. In addition, there is a greater risk of bare patches developing in the pasture. Horses grazing in pastures with many bare patches often ingest excessive amounts of sand, increasing the risk of sand colic.

The varying feed value of a grass plant

The feed value of a grass plant depends greatly on its stage of development. Up to and including the growth of the third leaf, grass is rich in protein and provides little structural value. When the fourth leaf develops, the flowering stem begins to form, which is where the plant produces seed for reproduction. As soon as the flowering stem develops, the feed value declines and the plant forms more cell walls. As a result, fibre content and structure increase.

Through effective management, you can influence the feed value of a grass plant. Read more about this in the article on pasture management.

Horse Master. Healthy grass for horses

Horse Master is a pasture mixture specially tailored to the needs of horses. It contains grass varieties with a low growing point, enabling rapid regrowth after grazing or mowing. The varieties in Horse Master have also been selected for their low fructan content. The RPR technology in Horse Master creates a natural network of roots with horizontal stolons. This results in a very dense and durable sward that can withstand intensive hoof traffic.