20 acres. Root plow man said bahia was too thick for him to root plow the pastures. We have approx 50% coverage with mesquite and some cactus with thick bahia and weeds all over. He said we should take out the mesquite selectively then spray the weeds and use the bahia for grazing. I would really like to have coastal/tifton but, if the cost & time are going to be too much than its not feasible. What are some options here? All we have are horses. thanks for the help>>>>>>

Rod, If the mesquite are not too terribly thick, selective clearing can be your best choice. A smaller root plow or a dozer with a grubber on the front would be able to accomplish this. Soil moisture is the key to pulling or pushing any sort of implement through the ground. As mentioned, a real thick stand of grass can cause problems. Heavy grazing, shredding or burning can help remove this above ground growth and allow easier clearing. Both of these options work best at different times and it is probably too late to burn. One other option on the mesquite is a chemical application.

As for the bahia, not the best for horses, but it is already there. Truly, only the hybrid sprigged bermuda's will compete with the bahia, but this would be after extensive ground prepartion, fertilizer, lime, and mangement. Common bermuda will not compete as well, especially if not fertilized.

Hope this helps,

Nathan
Parker Seed (La Vernia, TX)
(830-779-9987)