Woolly pod vetch
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Pasture type and use | Annual legume, producing most of its growth in autumn, winter and spring. Grazing, hay. |
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Area of adaptation | Southern to Northern Tablelands, Central to North West Slopes. |
Min. average annual rainfall | 550 mm (southern NSW) to 650 mm (northern NSW). |
Advantages |
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Disadvantages |
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Soil requirements | Adapted to a wide range of soils from granite to heavy basalt. Suited to well-drained soils with low levels of exchangeable aluminium. |
Varieties | Select varieties on the basis of hard-seed levels.
* Denotes that this variety is protected by Plant Breeder’s Rights. |
Sowing rates: | |
- as only species | 6–10 kg/ha |
- in mixtures | 4–6 kg/ha |
Sowing time | Autumn |
Companion species | Cereal fodder crops, perennial grasses. |
Inoculation | Group E |
Major nutrient deficiencies | Phosphorus, sulfur, molybdenum. |
Main insect pests | Heliothis, lucerne seed web moth. |
Main diseases | Botrytis grey mould. |
Management | Do not graze young seedlings before branching occurs. Avoid grazing from flowering onwards in the first year, and when attempting to build up a seed reserve in soil. |
Livestock disorders of particular note | ‘Ill thrift’ syndrome in cattle, with dermatitis and diarrhoea (sometimes). |
Additional tips |
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Further information | Agfact P2.5.9 Namoi woolly pod vetch. |
Advice on livestock health disorders was provided by Dr Chris Bourke, Principal Research Scientist, NSW Agriculture, Orange. His contribution is gratefully acknowledged.
Photo: Warren McDonald, Former Technical Specialist (Pastures), NSW Agriculture, Tamworth