Meadow Fescue Cocksfoot are the most reliable forage species providing good yields on low input, light, free draining soils where ryegrass alone can often struggle or even ‘burn up’ in prolonged periods of dry weather. Drought resistant Meadow Fescue and deep rooting Cocksfoot can produce higher early and mid season yields than a 100% ryegrass sward receiving little or no fertiliser, particularly on low fertility soils.
It is well documented that Cocksfoot is the only grass species to continuously extend it’s root length year on year making it extremely tolerant of dry surface conditions and even providing a valuable mid to late season bite during prolonged drought.
Regular grazing is important to keep the deep rooting Cocksfoot in a palatable and leafy condition. The sward will stand continuous grazing however, periodic rest to allow time for unrestricted re-growth is recommended at higher stock levels. Once the sward is fully established this permanent pasture will also be suited to producing an occasional crop of early maturing hay.