A review of the use of chicory plantain red clover and white clover in a sward mix for increased sheep and beef production
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Date
2015
DOI
Open Access Location
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
NZ Grassland Association
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Abstract
Many farmers are sowing mixed swards containing
chicory (Cichorium intybus), plantain (Plantago
lanceolata), red clover (Trifolium pratense) and white
clover (T. repens) (hereafter termed herb and clover
mix). This herb and clover mix has comparable annual
dry matter (DM) production to perennial ryegrass white
clover pasture (rye/wc), however, it has a different
pattern of growth, producing more DM during summer
and autumn. The herb and clover mix also has a higher
nutritive value and is able to support greater rates of
animal production, especially over summer, than rye/
wc in both sheep and cattle. The herb and clover mix is
most suited to a rotational grazing interval of 3–4 weeks
to an 8 cm residual height, with no winter grazing.
When managed appropriately the herb and clover mix
is able to persist for at least 2 years and up to 5 years
under both sheep and cattle grazing.
Description
Keywords
Cichorium intybus, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, Trifolium repens, legume, perennial, nutritive value
Citation
Journal of New Zealand Grasslands, 2015, 77 pp. 89 - 94 (6)