Agronomic methods: Evaluation by multiple‐species pasture mixtures

Abstract

Two trials, of 13 and 24 pasture species respectively, illustrated the utility of using the methodology of an initial multiple species mixture of contending accessions as a means of determining those most suitable to particular environment and management systems. Grazing trials on a developed lowland site and an initial development of a rangeland site showed rapid convergence in pasture composition from different initial sowing patterns. The option of sowing individual accessions as rows within mixed grazed swards gave the opportunity of comparing species or cultivars at early evaluation stages when seed supplies may be limited.

Key words:

• experimental design
• species selection
• pasture composition