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Managing tall tussocks within a pastoral system

NOTE: Tall tussock grasslands are valued as part of a semi-developed pastoral system, as they provide a microclimate suited to the desired palatable plant species, such as clover and cocksfoot, and shelter for stock. Tussocks will also break the snow cover in winter, which is beneficial to stock.

GUIDELINES:

  • Grazing. Stock type and stocking rate will depend on the farming system and environment. Graze at a rate that maintains a good tussock cover, (knee high).

  • Weed control (including Hieracium). for more information on weed control.

  • At lower altitudes can use oversowing and top dressing (OSTD); to maintain both tussock and introduced species. for more information on OSTD

  • If burning occurs; spell to allow re-establishment of tussock.

  • Subdivision of paddocks (where appropriate) can improve ease and efficiency of management options.

  • Monitor to determine success of the management option, and status of weed and animal pest populations. for more information on monitoring in tussock grasslands.