GRAZING INDUSTRY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23162, 7 October 1938, Page 5

GRAZING INDUSTRY

IMPROVING DANTHONIA FIELD FOR RESEARCH DROUGHT-RESISTING TYPES

BY OUIDIRE

A vast amount of research and experiment has been devoted in New Zealand to improving the production and nutritive qualities of acclimatised English grasses, particularly perennial ryegrass and white clover.

In vie\y of the fact that by far the largest proportion of livestock in the Dominion is depastured 'on danthonia, and that by the nature of much of the country this must continue to be the case, it would appear to be selfevident that a great forward step in the Dominion's stock-carrying capacity would be made, were an equal amount of interest and research devoted to improving danthonia. There are several types of this grass, ranging from the dry and rush-like danthonia somi-annularis to a giant form, somewhat resembling tall fescue, and found in bush clearings. The most popular from the grazier's point of view is undoubtedly danthonia pilosa, a type which thrives on a wide range of soils and throws a considerable amount of nutritious fodder. It is certain that if closo study were given to this grass, revealing the treatment and combination with other grasses which suited it best, and perhaps developing superior drought-resisting or prolific types, groat benefit would accrue to the pastoral industries.