Producers using and sowing pastures will find information on 65 species covering some 300 varieties in the 2004-2005 edition of Pasture Grasses, Legumes and Herbs used in New South Wales (NSW).

New South Wales Agriculture and The Grasslands Society of NSW have teamed up to produce the free publication that lists what is available on the market and the main source of seed.

Pasture Specialist at Tamworth, Warren McDonald, who compiled the book in association with agronomists and seed companies throughout NSW, said the book provided vital information.

“There is a real need for producers to know what varieties are available and who supplies them,” Mr McDonald said.

“Varieties are classified according to characteristics or factors such as maturity, dormancy, or disease tolerance. This helps the reader to know what factors should be considered when selecting a variety within a species.

“For example, sub clover varieties are classified according to the type of sub clover, then maturity and hard seededness.

“A variety in question can therefore be selected for the growing conditions and intended use, and compared with other varieties in the market place with similar characteristics.

“Once the producer has access to this short list of potential varieties, he or she can check with local agronomists to see if there are any trial results relevant to the relevant paddock and situation to assist in making a decision.”

Mr McDonald stressed that the list of varieties is not a list of recommendations or approved varieties as was once published by the Pasture Variety Committee.

Pasture Grasses, Legumes and Herbs used in NSW is supported by the Pasture Planner project on NSW Agriculture’s web site at www.agric.nsw.gov.au It includes a series of short agfacts covering the agronomic information needed to establish and manage a pasture containing a particular species.

Mr McDonald said Agfacts, which cover most of the major species used in NSW, provide further detail when required.

Grassland Society members will be supplied with a copy of the book, while a seed company will be distributing limited copies to retail outlets throughout NSW.

Copies of the 2004-2005 edition of Pasture Grasses, Legumes and Herbs used in NSW are available through NSW Agriculture’s district agronomists.