WITH the relatively dry winter and early spring we have been experiencing, many paddocks may have been over-grazed in recent months and are now showing signs of weed growth, so it is vitally important to control them as early as possible.

Buttercups, dandelions and docks are the main problematic weeds in horse paddocks. Even relatively low infestation of these weeds can reduce the amount of grass available. A good control strategy must involve tackling these weeds early. Best control from any weedkiller is achieved on actively growing young plants sprayed in the spring or early summer before the weeds flower out.

Horse paddocks

Envy, from Corteva Sciences, contains the two potent active ingredients fluroxypyr and florasulam, it is powerful on buttercups, dandelions, plantains, daisies, docks and chickweed in paddocks and hay and silage swards.

Because there are no issues with residues in manure, it is particularly suited to horse paddocks. This can be an important issue where horse manure is used as a nutrient source in gardening. Envy should be applied at a rate of 2l/ha in 200l of water in established pasture. Keep animals off the pasture for seven days after application. In silage or hay swards, do not cut for at least three to four weeks to ensure full translocation to the root system.