Legumes in low‐input perennial pastures of southern Australia: Historical role and future development

Abstract

Abstract This review deals with the role of legumes in native and low‐input perennial pastures in temperate Australia. It draws on lessons learnt from the problems associated with legume dominance and proposes development and management strategies to ensure a sustainable role for legumes in pasture systems in the future. The low‐input syndrome is defined in geographical and management terms, and the historical role of legumes in pasture development/decline in the higher‐rainfall zone of eastern Australia is summarised. In general, while the loss of perennial native grasses is often attributed to the introduction of a vigorous legume, other factors such as invasion of annual (Mediterranean) grasses and broad‐leaf species, and the lack of appropriate grazing strategies must also share a significant responsibility for the decline in these species. The proposed characteristics of a stable, low‐input pasture system are: a diverse range of species; a high degree of botanical stability; an economic level of production; and, efficient use of resources. The primary roles of legumes in low‐input pasture systems are to maintain or increase soil nitrogen (N) levels, and to ensure pastures produce at an economically viable level without incurring major shifts in botanical composition. Suggested strategies for developing legumes specifically for low‐input pastures include: selecting more persistent cultivars/ species whether annuals or perennials; selecting legumes which are more phosphate (P) efficient and function at lower P levels found in low‐input systems; evaluating the ability of legume species to add N to the systems; and, ensuring that cultivar development takes place under realistic sward conditions. The need for a better understanding of legume ecology in low‐input perennial grass systems was identified as an important step in developing more stable low‐input systems.