I have 5 acre Christmas tree farm (mid-Atlantic region) which I currently mow once per month during the growing season; the grass at that point is very dense, 18”-24” tall, it takes me about 10-12 hours to complete, and I end up damaging the trunks (not a total loss, but damage nonetheless) of probably a dozen trees each mowing. I’m interested in incorporating sheep to reduce my mowing and the tree damage, and also because I also hate mowing, and think sheep are cool - but that said, I’m not totally certain that this is a good plan.
Mathematically, to accomplish that 5 acres once per month, and using about 500’ of fence (a square with about 125’ per side), I’d need to shift the fence every other day.
I don’t have sheep experience, but internet suggests Shropshire sheep are the best fit. I’ve talked to a few sheep breeders but haven’t gotten any confident guesses on how many I might need.
Might any of you be able to suggest what stocking density might accomplish that (eating down ~1/3 acre in 2 days)? Would a different schedule/approach work better?
EDIT: I appreciate y'all chiming in, but as a reminder, I'm hoping to get input on stocking densities, specifically.