Bluegrass tuft
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Bluegrass seedhead
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image available)
Pasture type and use | A perennial tufted summer-growing grass for grazing. |
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Area of adaptation | It is especially adapted to cracking clay soils in summer-rainfall areas of the North West Slopes and Plains of NSW. |
Min. average annual rainfall | Minimum average annual rainfall (summer-dominant) 600 mm. |
Advantages |
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Disadvantages |
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Soil requirements | It is especially suited to cracking clay soils but will tolerate a wider range of soil types. Suited to neutral to alkaline pH soils. It can survive low soil phosphorus but responds well to improved fertility. |
Varieties |
Floren*
*Denotes that this variety is protected by Plant Breeder’s Rights. |
Sowing rates: |
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Sowing time | Sowing time is dependent on soil temperature (17°C and rising). Sow when there is the greatest chance of rainfall, with follow-up rainfall likely to occur. |
Companion species |
Grasses include Bambatsi panic, Premier digit grass, Rhodes grass. Legumes such as sub clover, medic and lucerne are compatible and improve nitrogen fertility and feed quality.
Always check suitability of species for your area with your local agronomist. |
Inoculation | Not applicable. |
Major nutrient deficiencies | Predominantly nitrogen but will respond to phosphorus and sulfur. |
Main insect pests | No reports of insects of importance. |
Main diseases | No reports of diseases of importance. |
Management |
In the season of establishment, a light grazing is possible at the end of the growing season if the secondary root system is well developed.
Established stands can withstand heavy grazing, but using rotational grazing will allow the plants to recover and provide a greater quantity of feed. |
Livestock disorders of particular note | No livestock disorders encountered. |
Additional tips | It is recognised as a competitive pasture species for the control of lippia (Phyla spp.). |
Advice on livestock health disorders was provided by Dr Chris Bourke, Principal Research Scientist, NSW Agriculture, Orange. His contribution is gratefully acknowledged.
Photos: Bruce Cook, Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.