Pasture establishment on a granite soil on the northern tablelands of New South Wales

Abstract

Factors affecting the establishment and yields of legumes (Trifolium repens L., Trifolium subterraneum L., Meticago sativa L.) on unimproved pasture were studied on a granite soil in New England. Treatments included methods and times of sowing, pre-sowing grazing managements, and fertilizer applications. Sod seeding and discing increased the establishment of clover as did late sowing when the seed was broadcast. Pre-sowing grazing managements had no significant effects. Nitrogen application improved clover establishment. The percentage establishment for subterranean clover was consistently higher than that for white clover, but this was not related to subsequent yield. Sod seeding resulted in increased clover yields. Interactions between yields and pre-sowing grazing managements occurred with species ; light grazing before sowing resulted in maximum white clover yield whereas heavy grazing resulted in maximum subterranean clover and lucerne yields. Significant responses in the yield of white clover were obtained from phosphorus and potassium applications with a significant interaction (P x K). In the second year there were responses to phosphorus and sulphur, largely with repeat applications. The response to potassium declined in the second year. There was a significant increase in clover growth early in the second year from the application of lime and this interacted with potassium.