Description
Leona Prairie Grass is a prairie grass for Australian producers who are looking for improved productivity, quality and persistence. Leona Prairie Grass has been selected for increased seedling vigour resulting in faster establishment which can lead to a reduced time to the first graze.
Palatability of Leona is exceptional and, with the improved winter yields, results in high quality feed at a very valuable time of year. Leona has the ability to produce excellent quantities of seed which gives improved persistence.
- Improved seedling vigour
- Exceptional winter production
- High tiller density
- Improved persistence through higher reseeding
- Extremely palatable
Grazing management of Leona Prairie Grass
Leona is best suited to intensive rotational grazing systems, leading to increased regrowth and persistence. First grazing can occur when plants have developed strong roots and can withstand the “pull test” usually at the 3-4 leaf stage when tillers are starting to develop. Do not graze when the soil is waterlogged as this can potentially lead to pugging, damage plants and reduce production and persistence of Leona. Best regrowth and persistence will be maintained through strict rotational grazing management. To avoid over grazing, leave between 6-10 cm residuals, and will avoid over grazing of any companion legumes. Graze at intervals of 21-28 days from October onwards to allow for adequate seed-set leading to re-establishment of the Leona the following autumn.
Sowing and establishment
Prairie grass should be established in the autumn. It can be sown into a conventionally cultivated seed bed or by direct drilling, it is important to ensure you have good seed to soil contact for an even germination and establishment. Sowing rates can range from 7-10 kg/ha when sown with other perennial grasses and legumes, but consideration needs to be made around grazing management as this can be difficult when prairie grass is sown with perennial ryegrass and tall fescue. When prairie grass is sown with legumes and or herbs, sowing rates should be 25-35 kg/ha of Leona prairie grass plus legumes and or herbs.
What is Prarie Grass?
Prairie grass is a highly productive perennial grass that has the unique trait of being extremely palatable to the grazing animal at every stage of development – even when in full seed head. Ideally suited to higher fertility soils where there is reliable high annual rainfall and or irrigation available to get the most out of the species. Extremely productive in dry matter produced during the winter months and into early spring.