Gatton panic

Gatton panic
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NOTE: The information in this Agnote must be read in conjunction with Introduction to selecting and using pastures in NSW, which covers information on areas of adaptation, sources of variability, species mixtures, and important issues related to animal health and the conservation of native vegetation.

Pasture type and use	Perennial grass, producing main growth in spring, summer and autumn. Grazing.
Area of adaptation	Northern NSW
Min. average annual rainfall	500 mm
Advantages	Better spring growth than many other tropical grasses. Moderately palatable, shade-tolerant, moderate drought resistance. Superior to Petrie on low-fertility soils.
Disadvantages	Poor tolerance to flooding. Moderate persistence.
Soil requirements	Medium-textured soils with good fertility.
Varieties	Gatton
Sowing rates:	as only species - 2–4 kg/ha in mixtures - 1–2 kg/ha
Sowing time	Mid-spring to late summer, depending on rainfall incidence and weed control.
Companion species	Grasses: Rhodes grass, digit grass. Legumes: Inland - lucerne and medics, sub clover; Coastal - siratro, greenleaf desmodium, glycine, white clover.
Inoculation	N/A
Major nutrient deficiencies	Phosphorus, nitrogen and sulfur.
Main insect pests	No significant problems.
Main diseases	No significant problems.
Management	Maintain a moderate amount of leaf on the plant without allowing it to become rank. Avoid heavy grazing just before winter.
Livestock disorders of particular note	Frequently hyperparathyroidism (‘big head’) in horses, occasionally nephrosis or hypocalcaemia in ruminants, due to oxalates.
Additional tips	Adequate weed control is essential for successful establishment. Ensure seed is free of declared weeds (e.g. parthenium weed).
Further information	Agfact P2.5.35. Panic grasses for pastures.

Acknowledgment

Advice on livestock health disorders was provided by Dr Chris Bourke, Principal Research Scientist, NSW Agriculture, Orange. His contribution is gratefully acknowledged.

Photo: Warren McDonald, Former Technical Specialist (Pastures), NSW Agriculture, Tamworth