Practical steps for healthier paddocks, better grazing, and more productive animals
Managing pasture well is one of the most important jobs on a lifestyle block. Good grass means healthier stock, fewer feed bills, and less time battling weeds or mud. It also protects your soil and water for the long term.
This guide covers the essentials and links you to more detailed articles in our Pasture & Fertiliser section.
Understanding Your Pasture
Not all pasture is created equal. The mix of pasture species on your block, and how they grow through the seasons, will determine how well your animals thrive.
Learn to recognise common grasses, clovers and paddock herbs.
Watch for changes in pasture over time. Weeds often move in when desirable plants are overgrazed or the soil is lacking nutrients.
Read more in:
Soil Health and Fertility Basics
Healthy pasture starts with healthy soil. The most important first step is a soil test. It will tell you your pH, nutrient levels, and where you need to focus.
If your soil is too acidic, lime can make a big difference. Lime raises pH, unlocking nutrients that plants need and improving the effectiveness of fertiliser.
Free resource: Download the Guide to Lime for clear, practical steps on how to sample, interpret results, and apply lime on a lifestyle block.
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Grazing Management on Small Blocks
Overgrazing weakens plants, exposes soil, and invites weeds. Letting pasture get too long can reduce its nutritional value.
The usual approaches are:
Rotational grazing – stock are moved between paddocks to allow rest and regrowth.
Set stocking – animals stay in the same paddock for longer periods.
Strip grazing - using electric tape fences to give livestock fresh 'wedges' of pasture regularly.
Seasonal conditions and your stock numbers will guide which system works best.
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Managing Weeds and Problem Plants
Weeds compete with pasture plants for nutrients, light, and moisture. Common culprits on lifestyle blocks include docks, buttercup, and thistles.
Good pasture management reduces weeds naturally, but you may still need to control them directly. This can include:
Topping or grubbing before they seed
Managing grazing pressure
Selective herbicide use if you choose
Read more in:
Fertiliser Use and Timing
Pasture plants need nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other nutrients to grow well. Fertiliser boosts growth and quality, but timing and type matter.
Apply when plants are actively growing, and avoid spreading before heavy rain to reduce runoff.
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Renovating and Reseeding Pasture
Sometimes pasture needs a fresh start. Reseeding can improve production and feed quality, especially if weeds or poor species dominate.
The basic process is:
Spray or graze down existing growth
Sow the chosen seed mix
Manage grazing carefully during establishment
Environmental Stewardship
Pasture management is also about looking after the land.
Maintain buffer strips beside waterways
Avoid grazing wet paddocks to reduce pugging and erosion
Manage nutrient inputs to prevent leaching
Read more in:
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I soil test?
Every 2–3 years is a good rule of thumb for most lifestyle blocks.
When is the best time to spread lime?
Autumn or early spring, before active pasture growth.
How do I know if my pasture is overgrazed?
If plants are grazed below 3–4 cm, recovery slows and weeds may take over.
Can different species of livestock share the same pasture?
Yes, but keep an eye on parasite management. Each species has its own risks.
Next Steps for Better Pasture
Getting the basics right will set your pasture and your animals up for success. Browse all our articles on pasture and fertiliser.
Download your free Guide to Lime to get started on improving soil health.
For advice on how to identify your soil type, pasture renovation tips, and an in-depth look at fertiliser, check out my Pasture Management and Soil & Fertiliser ebooks.
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