Woolly pod vetch

Woolly pod vetch
(High-resolution
image available)

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	Annual legume, producing most of its growth in autumn, winter and spring. Grazing, hay.
Area of adaptation	Southern to Northern Tablelands, Central to North West Slopes.
Min. average annual rainfall	550 mm (southern NSW) to 650 mm (northern NSW).
Advantages	High protein. Good pioneer species when developing new country. Long growing season. Low bloat risk in cattle.
Disadvantages	Poor palatability, especially when young. Slow winter growth. Susceptible to heavy grazing pressure at establishment and in the spring. Potential weed of winter crops.
Soil requirements	Adapted to a wide range of soils from granite to heavy basalt. Suited to well-drained soils with low levels of exchangeable aluminium.
Varieties	Select varieties on the basis of hard-seed levels. Low hard-seed levels: Capello * High hard-seed levels: Haymaker Plus * Namoi * Denotes that this variety is protected by Plant Breeder’s Rights.
Sowing rates:
- as only species	6–10 kg/ha
- in mixtures	4–6 kg/ha
Sowing time	Autumn
Companion species	Cereal fodder crops, perennial grasses.
Inoculation	Group E
Major nutrient deficiencies	Phosphorus, sulfur, molybdenum.
Main insect pests	Heliothis, lucerne seed web moth.
Main diseases	Botrytis grey mould.
Management	Do not graze young seedlings before branching occurs. Avoid grazing from flowering onwards in the first year, and when attempting to build up a seed reserve in soil.
Livestock disorders of particular note	‘Ill thrift’ syndrome in cattle, with dermatitis and diarrhoea (sometimes).
Additional tips	Needs at least moderate fertility. Sow early to establish seedlings before cold weather restricts growth.
Further information	Agfact P2.5.9 Namoi woolly pod vetch.

Acknowledgments

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