Effects of soil characteristics and spring management on the persistence of 'Grasslands Matua' prairie grass

Abstract

'Grasslands Matua' prairie grass was direct drilled into easy hill county at Whatawhata Research Centre. Establishment was excellent, but persistence was poor in most paddocks after 2 years. Site conditions associated with a range of Matua populations were surveyed. Matua population decline was greatest during spring. Spring soil nitrogen levels were associated with persistence, implying that nitrogen application in late winter may enhance persistence. In a trial to assess the effect of spring management on tillering patterns, seed production and seedling vigour, October closing resulted in the highest seed production, seed vigour and highest tiller density after herbage removal. It is proposed that a springsummer hay making policy will enhance the vigour of the existing population and provide adequate reseeding for new plant recruitment. Keywords Matua, persistence, soil survey, nitrogen, tiller density, closing date