Large These tend to be higher yielding but shorter lived. Most suited to cutting mixtures. Red Clover Most often seed in cutting mixtures, they are shorter lived. Will produce protein rich hay/silage. Chicory A perennial herb with a deep tap root, making it useful in situations where the soil is light or prone to drought, and will maintain production throughout the season. Chicory is also very palatable, with high protein and mineral content too. Fairly persistent in leys, lasting up to 5 years, it will also regrow rapidly after grazing. Chicory has been known to have anthelmintic properties too. Plantain Another deep rooting herb, that is very palatable to grazing livestock. Similar to Chicory, Plantain has also been shown to reduce anthelmintic use in sheep. Reseeding Before reseeding, you must first determine the current state of the grassland areas: • Check for compaction, weed problems or patches. • How much of the original sown species are still there? This will determine if an overseed could work, or if its best to do a complete reseed. • Have weeds or other grass species taken over? When the sward gets to below 50% of sown species it might be time to look at sward rejuvenation. Overseed Reseed If the existing ley still has a good proportion of original sown species Best method of establishing a new ley Offers a short term boost Sown species are less than 50% of the sward Ideal if reseeding is not possible due to conditions Improves yield, quality, and productivity Repairs damaged swards Introduces new varieties and genetics Improves productivity Opportunity to tackle weed and/or compaction issues Can introduce clover There is less competition from existing grass species
Causes little damage to the existing ley Less interruption to the use of the field Requires use of varieties and species with more competitive habits
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