Red Meat Targets: Arrowleaf clover in mixed pasture sward

Summary

The establishment of Arrotas into an established and a new pasture had mixed success. Establishment of Arrotas into an established cocksfoot pasture, commenced in 2005. While showing initial vigour, the population density has since declined. Hard seeds and dry conditions at early growth stages affected the density. Establishment into a new pasture had initial success in 2006, but again dry conditions and hard seeds resulted in a loss in Arrotas density in 2007. Further evaluation of population density under both establishment methods will continue. However it is clear that unless sufficient moisture is available at seedling emergence, Arrotas is not suited to a dryland pasture mix. However the liveweight results from an irrigated monoculture, suggest that Arrotas could have potential in an irrigated intensive system (eg. dairy). The biggest impact of Arrotas will be in finishing systems, as a high quality source of protein during the summer period.