Is Bermuda Grass Good for Horses? Pros & Cons of This Popular Forage

The scent of freshly cut Bermuda grass drifting across a sunlit pasture is enough to make any horse prick its ears in anticipation. This hardy, drought-resistant forage is a staple in many equine diets, but is Bermuda grass truly good for horses? Like most things in horse care, the answer isn’t black and white—it depends on factors like quality, stage of growth, and how it’s managed. Bermuda grass offers high yields and decent nutrition, making it a cost-effective choice for many horse owners. Yet, its tough stems and variable sugar content can pose challenges, especially for horses prone to metabolic issues. Let’s dig into the pros and cons so you can decide if this popular forage belongs in your pasture or hay barn.

What Makes Bermuda Grass Unique?

Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season perennial that thrives in hot climates, from the southern U.S. to tropical regions. Its deep root system helps it survive droughts, and it spreads aggressively via rhizomes and stolons—great for erosion control, less ideal for flower beds! For horses, its appeal lies in its high productivity; a well-managed Bermuda pasture can yield more forage per acre than many cool-season grasses. But its nutritional profile shifts dramatically with maturity. Young, leafy Bermuda is palatable and relatively high in protein (10-14%), while older, stemmy growth becomes fibrous and less digestible. The grass also contains moderate sugar levels, which can be a concern for insulin-resistant horses.

Key Characteristics of Bermuda Grass

• Drought tolerance: Survives with minimal water once established.
• Rapid growth: Can be grazed or cut frequently in peak season.
• Adaptability: Grows in poor soils but thrives with fertilization.
• Seasonal variation: Loses nutritional value after frost.

Pros of Bermuda Grass for Horses

For many horse owners, Bermuda grass is a practical choice. Its ability to rebound after grazing makes it sustainable for pastures, and its affordability as hay is a major plus. When managed correctly, it provides steady fiber for digestive health without the excessive sugars found in some cool-season grasses like ryegrass. Horses with low energy needs (think easy keepers or retirees) often do well on Bermuda, as it’s less likely to cause weight gain compared to richer forages. Plus, its dense growth crowds out weeds, reducing the risk of toxic plants invading the pasture.

Nutritional Benefits

Early-growth Bermuda hay can rival orchard grass in protein content, making it suitable for young, growing horses or those in moderate work. It’s also rich in silica, which supports hoof health—though this same trait can make older cuttings feel like chewing on sandpaper. Many horses develop a taste for it, especially when it’s fresh and tender. “My mare would choose Bermuda over alfalfa any day,” says Texas trainer Leah Carter. “She’s a hard keeper, and the consistent forage keeps her gut happy.”

Cons of Bermuda Grass for Horses

Not all horses thrive on Bermuda. The grass’s tough lignin content increases as it matures, leading to lower digestibility. Poor-quality Bermuda hay—often stemmy and brown—can cause impaction colic if horses don’t drink enough water. Metabolic horses need careful monitoring, as Bermuda’s sugar levels spike under certain conditions (e.g., bright sun after a cool night). And let’s be honest: some horses turn up their noses at it, leaving wasted hay in the stall. Another downside? Bermuda goes dormant and loses nutritional value in winter, requiring supplemental feeding.

Potential Risks

• High fructans: Risk for laminitis-prone horses.
• Dust/mold: Poorly cured hay can trigger respiratory issues.
• Overgrazing: Horses may ingest dirt if pasture is too short.

How to Feed Bermuda Grass Safely

Maximize benefits by harvesting hay at the right stage—just before seedhead emergence—and storing it properly to prevent mold. For pastures, rotate grazing to prevent overgrazing and maintain leafy growth. Soaking Bermuda hay for 30-60 minutes can reduce sugar content for metabolic horses. Pair it with a balanced mineral supplement, as Bermuda is often low in calcium and other trace nutrients. And always provide clean water to aid digestion of its coarse fibers.

Alternatives to Consider

For horses needing higher protein (e.g., performance athletes), mixing Bermuda with alfalfa can boost nutrition. Those with sugar sensitivities might do better on Teff grass or mature Timothy hay. Observe your horse’s body condition, energy levels, and manure consistency to gauge if Bermuda suits them.

Under a twilight sky, there’s something deeply satisfying about watching horses graze contentedly on a well-tended Bermuda pasture. While no forage is perfect, this resilient grass has earned its place in equine diets—with a little wisdom and care. Whether you’re feeding it as hay or managing a grazing patch, the key is tuning into your horse’s individual needs. After all, their health and happiness are what truly make the dream of horse ownership come alive. 🐴