The Effect of Seasonal Deferred Grazing on Porto Cocksfoot

The objective of this study was to determine whether seasonal deferred grazing regimes could be used to increase the composition of cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L) in perennial pastures growing in temperate Australia. The experiment was conducted over three years at two sites; one in Victoria and the other in Tasmania, Australia. Relative to the control of continuous grazing, deferred grazing in spring reduced the amount of cocksfoot in the sward. Conversely, deferred grazing in summer increased the amount of cocksfoot present. It is concluded that deferred grazing can be used to change the amount of cocksfoot in a pasture, but the critical length of the deferment and driving mechanisms require further investigation.