In Australia, the apparent need for manual or mechanical harvesting was initially a serious deterrent to farmers. Subsequently, the demonstration that sheep and cattle can browse the shrubs directly without detriment to the plants has led to greatly increased use. They require little attention beyond annual application of fertilizer and periodic lopping. The foliage has a composition similar to best-quality alfalfa. The foliage is free from toxic substances.
Nutrient composition varies according to soil fertility.
In particular, minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are reduced in foliage grown on mineral-deficient soils. The fodder contains protein, vitamins and minerals that are lacking in poor-quality roughage. Used as a supplement, it increases consumption of dry mature grass and improves roughage utilization. In-row spacing can vary from 25 cm to 2 m. This is equivalent to 1.5 kg each for 18 sheep every day of the year.