An important step in renovating pastures is proper grazing management. Consider using electric fencing to separate large pastures into smaller plots and implement rotational grazing. | Photo: iStock

Begin by evaluating pastures for grass and clover stand, along with weed presence.

“Be realistic about the status of the pastures and use caution not to over-or-under represent the coverage of the pasture with weeds and grasses,” says Jennie Ivey, MS, PhD, assistant professor and extension equine specialist at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. An accurate evaluation will aid in determining if you should plant more grasses, legumes, or both.

Then, consider what you need to add. “Select a forage that is appropriate for the region and that will complement the existing stand,” Ivey