Introduction, production, and persistence of five grass species in dry hill country

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Abstract Despite receiving more than 1000 mm rainfall annually, north- and west-facing slopes in hill country at Ballantrae are examples of areas of New Zealand that suffer seasonal water deficits and production loss. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the persistence and production of ‘Grasslands Nui’ ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), ‘Grasslands Wana’ cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.), ‘Grasslands Maru’ phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L.), ‘Grasslands Matua’ prairie grass (Bromus wilidenowii Kunth), and ‘Grasslands Roa’ tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), under grazing, for greater stability and quantity of production. Pasture production (1982–86) was similar for all species (average = 9060 kg DM/ha) and was significantly greater than that of resident pastures (6050 kg DM/ ha). The most persistent grass species was Wana cocksfoot, followed by Nui ryegrass. Roa tall fescue was of intermediate persistence, and Maru phalaris and Matua prairie grass showed difficulty persisting in this environment.