Forage livestock - Part 1
Channel: Local Land Services NSW
Date: 2023-11-26

In this pasture trial at the Demonstration Farm, the previously oat-covered area has undergone a transformation into a Millet and Broadleaf cover crop. Following the oats' complete lifecycle, the soil was lightly exposed using a tractor, resulting in considerable plant and root matter that led to soil clumping. Despite the recommendation for additional mechanical seed bed preparation, this was intentionally left out for the purpose of the demonstration. The seeds were broadcasted above the soil to showcase poor seed placement.

The unique blend comprises 20% Cowpea, 5% Hemp, 40% Millet, 30% Soybean, and 5% Sunflower. This mix is strategically formulated to offer forage potential for ruminants, with the Broadleaves intended to be grazed when young and to persist into flowering and/or legume stages. The trial not only provides insights into the adaptability of this blend but may demonstrate the value of good seed bed preparation.