The Performance of Pasture Species in Canterbury

The seasonal and total production of a number of different grass species and lucerne varieties was compared under grazing over 3 years. Significant differences were obtained in total and component yields in all seasons. Lucerne outyielded all other species in the summer while prairie grass and tall fescue were superior in the autumn, winter and spring. The performance of the different species is discussed in relation to production, botanical composition, climate and insect attack.