The development of the West Coast's pakihi soils for pastoral purposes is a relatively simple process but involves several essential factors. Access, drainage, weed control and fencing must all be provided prior to oversowing of lime, fertilizer and seed. The management of pakihi soils, while essentially similar to that of alluviai or recent soil types, also has some additional problems. The most important decisions to be made are the type and breed of stock, the lambing and/or calving date, and matching the stocking rate as best as possible to the pasture growth in your area. The right decisions coupled with good pasture management will result in a productive pasture, a good stocking rate, and good returns from these stock.
