This January and February have been the best for summer rainfall and
pasture growth I have known in 50 years in the Waikato.
However, the high rainfall we have had could mean less rain in
Autumn. I have noticed over 50 years that plenty of rain in summer
was usually followed by dry autumns. In 1985, I think it was, we
didn't get decent autumn rains until 5 May.
So it could pay to sow autumn grass as soon as possible.
Pasture seed could be a bit short because of the regrassing necessary
in flooded Wairarapa and Manawatu and the wet harvesting conditions
in Canterbury, so I suggest that you get yours as soon as possible.
Reports I have collected indicate that Matrix ( perennial
ryegrass/meadow fescue cross is a high yielder with less stem) and
Quartet (tetraploid perennial ryegrass) are good.
Aries Endofree still gives the highest milk yield per hectare so
adding it to the mix could be worthwhile, especially until Matrix and
Quartet have shown that they can last for ten years or more.
Vulcan is reported to be the best fescue and Cordura the best overall
winter ryegrass because it lasts.
Kopu ll is accepted by most to still be the best large leafed white clover.
Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) sold as Grasslands Lancelot is loved
by cows and is worth trying in the mix.
Which have others found to be good?
With the low predicted dairy payout looming and already low beef
prices, increasing production and profit/ha continues to be the
solution. Palatable (so animals eat more) and high yielding, long
lasting pastures must help.
--
Vaughan Jones
Hamilton
New Zealand
