Gatton is a Panicum that is characterised by summer dominance and requires a rainfall usually in excess of 600 - 1 000 mm per year. It does not tolerate very wet conditions or poor soil fertility, but can tolerate acidity to a certain extend. It should not be grazed or cut below 30 cm for persistence and maximum yield.
Requirements and uses
- Does not thrive on very sandy soils or on heavily structured soils
- Can withstand frost
- Minimum of 500 mm rain required
- Has better late season production than Smutsfinger
- As fodder more palatable than Smutsfinger grass
Establishment
- Sowing time: Late summer or early autumn
- Recommended not later than February
- Sensitive to weed competition
Utilization
- Heavy grazing can have great negative effect on Panicum compared to other grasses – restore more reserves in roots
- Allow to grow out well after heavy grazing to maintain excellent production
- Do not graze heavily before the winter
- Not suitable for sheep – grazing height to low