Pastures and Forage for Livestock

Pasture is the cheapest feed you'll ever have — the more your animals feed on good grass and leafy plants, the less you spend on extra energy- and protein-rich feed (concentrates). But pasture only works if you plan and manage it, especially through Nigeria's dry season.

1. Why pasture matters

• Cost — letting your animals feed on grass cuts your feed bill a lot.
• Health — animals on good pasture are stronger and breed better.
• Soil — well-managed pasture holds soil and water.

2. Choosing forage

• Grasses — such as elephant grass, gamba and Guinea grass for animals to feed on.
• Legumes (protein-rich plants) — such as stylo and centro, which add protein and put nitrogen back into the soil.
• Browse (leaves and shrubs) — trees and shrubs, especially for goats.

3. Managing pasture

• Rotation — divide the pasture and move animals between sections so the grass can grow back.
• Avoid overgrazing (letting animals eat the grass down too far) — it kills grass and invites weeds.
• Weed control — remove weeds before they spread.

4. Conserving forage for the dry season

Make hay (dried grass) or silage (stored, fermented grass) while the pasture is thick and green, so you have feed when it's scarce. This single habit turns dry-season weight loss into steady growth.

For the nutrition fundamentals, see our livestock nutrition guide, and see cattle farming for the full picture.