Creeping bluegrass
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Pasture type and use | Summer-growing tufted perennial grass with prostrate creeping stems. Beneficial in waterways and grazing. |
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Area of adaptation | North West Slopes and North West Plains. |
Min. average annual rainfall | 500 mm |
Advantages |
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Disadvantages |
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Soil requirements | Medium to heavy textured soil, but needs good drainage. |
Varieties |
* Denotes that this variety is protected by Plant Breeder’s Rights. |
Sowing rates: |
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Sowing time | Early summer to late summer, depending on rainfall pattern and weed control. |
Companion species | Medics, sub clovers and other suitable tropical grasses. |
Inoculation | N/A |
Major nutrient deficiencies | Nitrogen and phosphorus. |
Main insect pests | No significant problems. |
Main diseases | No significant problems. |
Management | Avoid grazing in the first year until seed-set. Graze to promote spreading of runners; manipulate grazing to encourage root development from nodes on the runners. Seed production can be increased by avoiding grazing in late autumn. |
Livestock disorders of particular note | No problems reported. |
Additional tips | Creeping bluegrass will respond to increased nitrogen, so maintain a legume in the pasture mix. |
The contribution of the Queensland Department of Primary Industries is gratefully acknowledged.
Advice on livestock health disorders was provided by Dr Chris Bourke, Principal Research Scientist, NSW Agriculture, Orange. His contribution is gratefully acknowledged.
Photo: Bede Clarke, NSW Agriculture, Casino