Cocksfoot A deep rooting grass that is slightly drought tolerant. Newer breeding has increased palatability, but management is key to maintain it, otherwise it can form tufts/tussocks that are less favoured in grazing but can be useful in creating habitats for wildlife. Cocksfoot will grow early in the spring to produce an ‘early bite’ and has a quick recovery time once grazed. Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass A slightly lower yielding species but is very palatable and useful in some situations. Deeper rooting, it copes well in drier soils and can tolerate some heat stress. Its creeping rhizomes make it tolerant to grazing and trampling as well as creating a dense sward. Red Fescue A fine leaved species that is slower growing but long lived, growing for a longer period of time. More suited to free draining soils, it can also withstand some nutrient and drought stress. Whilst being palatable to livestock, it can tolerate the trampling and wear from grazing. White Clover Mainly used in grazing mixtures, clover adds a good source of protein and nitrogen. It helps to fill out the bottom of the sward but can be sensitive to a lack of moisture and can be easily outcompeted by more dominant grass species. Small Ideally used of grazing mixtures, it is quite persistent. Suitable for sheep systems, it is tolerant of close/hard grazing. Medium The most widely used type, as it is most versatile. It is more productive, will tolerate frequent cutting and rotational grazing. It is adaptable for short and long terms leys.
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