AUTUMN is an ideal time to re-sow old, tired, underperforming paddocks to a new variety of ryegrass in order to capitalise on the warmer soil temperatures, available soil moisture and longer daylight hours.
Gippsland has seen many weeds germinate but this will allow for increased weed control pre-sowing.
This season has also illustrated the poorer performing areas on many farms, highlighting the need for renovation and improvement.
When deciding on a renovation process it is important to consider many key aspects to ensure the appropriate decision is made to suit all aspects of the paddock, especially where permanent pasture is being considered.
The rules of thumb for deciding upon which paddock to renovate include, although not exclusively, the following:
* Overall paddock performance over the past growing season – has it been adequate when compared with better performing pastures on the farm?
* Will the paddock require cultivation in order to improve drainage?
* What is the weed burden like across the paddock?
* Does the paddock require complete spray out and resow or will an oversow with an Italian or permanent pasture to lift production and fill in gaps suffice in an otherwise relatively well performing paddock?
Clearer decisions can then be focussed on what pasture species may be required in each individual situation such as is it best to go with an annual rye grass and double crop for increased weed control, or an Italian (biannual) for good winter feed whilst addressing drainage issues that may hinder a permanent pasture?
Alternatively the area may be ready to be planted back to perennial pasture that will perform well for an extended period.
It is important to soil test the paddock, especially if it has not been tested within the previous 24 months.
A soil test will help to determine whether lime or gypsum is required (pH and calcium dependant) and what fertiliser may be required while assessing the overall paddock health, ensuring newly planted cultivars can perform to potential.
Next consult the seed supplier or contractor should be consulted to ensure they know what is being planned so work programs can be coordinated.
Over the past two seasons there have been cases where selected seed varieties are ex harvest.
Ex harvest seed is only available after harvest and may mean it is not available when sowing.
Delaying sowing may leave it too late to capitalise on the warm autumn period. This may result in a missed early grazing option prior to winter setting.
If the selected variety is not available in time, consider an alternative.
Newly renovated pastures require six to eight weeks to establish and first grazing should not occur until no plants pull, and the ryegrass is at 2.5-3 leaf stage.
It is best when initially grazing off a new pasture (especially permanent) that the first grazing is a light one to leave good residuals across the paddock in order to allow for quick regrowth without damaging the new sward.
This is best done by putting in a large herd of heifers and removing as soon as the desired residual is reached.
Spray when necessary with recommended chemicals in order to remove competition and give the new pasture the best opportunity to thrive.
Consult an agronomist to help with paddock and species selection and preparation to tailor a program.
