Legume pastures deliver - even in dry times
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Pasture legumes are again proving they have a place in northern farming systems, with several new lines in a trial at Warialda performing very well despite the difficult seasonal conditions.
NSW Department of Primary Industries is evaluating a range of temperate, annual legumes suitable for grazing and crop rotations as part of the Grain & Graze project in the Border Rivers region.
Thirty legumes, consisting of several new Medics, Sub clovers, Serradellas, and other lines not previous grown in the district are being trialled the University of New England’s McMaster Farm, 37 km north of Warialda.
They will be one of the focal points of the Grain & Graze field day on October 19 when visitors will be able to see why legumes have potential in the Border Rivers region and elsewhere.
NSW DPI research agronomist, Graham Crocker, said he had been impressed with the results of his trial despite having been sown late.
"After receiving below average rain in early spring, good rain in late October allowed the legumes to flower and set seed in late spring which is essential for regeneration and long term persistence," Mr Crocker said.
"The most productive legumes in 2006 were Arrowleaf Clover, Biserrula, and a new annual Lotus. All these lines produced over three tonnes of dry matter per hectare when measured at the end of November.
"These lines are all late maturing or could respond to the late rain."
He said several other species such as Persian and Rose clover and the Medics also grew well and set seed earlier in the season, which was also reflected in the regeneration of lines and the yields in mid July this year. Sulla, a new biennial legume, has also showed promise.
The soil at the McMaster Farm is red basalt, typical of large areas in the region.
Mr Crocker said the trial shows the potential of legumes for these areas to provide nitrogen inputs for farming systems and also high quality feed to grow, fatten and finish livestock.
The legume pasture trial, along with tropical grasses and tropical grass/legume mixtures will be available for inspection and will be used to stimulate discussion at the Grain & Graze Field Day.
Further information about legume pastures can be obtained from Graham Crocker at NSW DPI in Tamworth on 6763 1138.
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