Establishment

Forage herbs are more sensitive to sowing depth and soil temperature than ryegrass. Sow into soil that is at least 12 degrees Celsius and sow no deeper than 10mm.

Ensure all weeds are controlled prior to sowing forage herbs as most selective pasture herbicides for use post sowing will severely damage the herbs chicory and plantain.

Fertility requirement will be the same as the other species in the pasture mix.

Sow at 1 – 3 kg/ha as part of a permanent pasture mix.

Sow at 4 – 6 kg/ha as a specialist crop with suitable companion species such as forage brassicas.

Sow at up to 10 kg/ha as a specialist crop combined with legumes.

note: as forage herbs are susceptible to many broadleaf herbicides, do not combine with forage brassicas if these chemicals are likely to be used on the crop.

Grazing

Forage herbs are highly palatable to grazing animals and are a valuable source of mineral uptake for stock.

Ensure grazing does not commence before the plants have a well developed tap root to help ensure good plant survival and persistency.

Grazing practice and frequency can be similar to that of ryegrass when in a pasture mix or can be managed to suit its specific companion species i.e. forage brassicas. A sufficient plant residual post grazing should be left to aid in plant regrowth.