The More Sub-Clover Package
The how do I get more sub-clover package provided producers and advisors with a simple diagnostic approach using Pasture Paramedic to assess clover pastures.
| Project start date: | 29 September 2018 |
| Project end date: | 29 November 2021 |
| Publication date: | 18 February 2022 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep |
| Relevant regions: | Southern Australia |
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Objectives
The project had the following objectives:
1. To create and road test with producers a diagnostic guide to assess the current condition of sub-clover pastures and rank the most important limitations.
2. To create and road test with producer’s management notes and develop associated producer management case studies on how to practically address the most important limitations identified. These management notes were to link existing technical information that is already available with practical paddock application.
3. Train agronomists, advisors and retailers in the use of the diagnostic tool and management options. This is to ensure there is awareness and support from other sources when the product is released.
Key findings
The products developed included:
• a simple diagnostic approach using Pasture Paramedic to assess clover pastures and a diagnostic guide involving a rule in rule out table to identify the leading reasons for possible sub-clover decline.
• Six factsheets on relevant management practices which addressed limitations.
• Two short videos related to grazing management and cultivar identification.
• Five producer case studies to highlight good management practices and principles.
Benefits to industry
The benefit of MLA having ownership of sub-clover products and advisors/merchandise resellers trained in their delivery will potentially improve management of sub-clover in mixed pastures. This in turn can help the industry provide increases in animal production and more efficient use of nitrogen fertiliser and assist with weed control.
MLA action
This project has raised the profile of sub-clover which had taken a back seat to grass management over many years and helped illustrate its importance in the pasture mix. Resellers and advisors were keen for accessible and up to date information on sub-clover cultivar identification. MLA’s PTN could capture leaf images of sub-clover cultivars that are being tested which could be used to update existing identification resources every four to five years.
Future research
Further promotion of products and their key components is needed to maximise their value. There was an appetite for the products from producers and producer organisations. Connection to other relevant PGS packages and awareness by their coaches could help achieve full value. The creation of a Legume hub to house the sub-clover resources to make them easily accessible will be a valuable addition to MLA online resources.
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For more information: Contact Project Manager: Andrew Morelli |
