Maximising subterranean clover in Marlborough’s hill country is key to weaning 80% of sale lambs prime

Abstract

Pre-weaning lamb growth rates have dramatically increased on the hill country property Tempello, from 258 g/head/day in 2001 to 350 g/head/day in 2007. Total kilograms of lamb liveweight weaned off the Corriedale and Corriedale/Poll Dorset flock area has increased from 60 tonnes to 76 tonnes, despite a reduction in ewe numbers. This has been achieved through a $315,000 investment in sub-division, fertiliser and water reticulation, coupled with a management shift towards maximising subterranean clover. Clover content in the sward of up to 50% in spring is achieved through letting subterranean clover establish in autumn. Ewes are not grazed on the blocks following germination until at least five leaves are present. Cattle and ewes are used to graze grass cover off paddocks in early winter (May and June) so that clover can compete. Paddocks are then spelled for up to 2 months prior to lambing, to let clover grow. Short-rotation ryegrass is used to feed some ewes during this time.