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Using fire to manage species composition in Heteropogon contortus (black speargrass) pastures 1. Burning regimes

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Orr, D.M., Paton, C.J. and Lisle, A.T. (1997) Using fire to manage species composition in Heteropogon contortus (black speargrass) pastures 1. Burning regimes. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research, 48 (6). pp. 795-802. ISSN 1836-0947

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Article Link: https://doi.org/10.1071/A96130

Abstract

A reduction in the proportion of the desirable grass Heteropogon contortus(black speargrass) and an increase in the undesirable Aristidaspp . (wiregrasses) are evident in commercially grazed pastures. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of spring burning regimes over a period of 4 years (1989-92) in reversing this form of pasture degradation.
Burning increased the proportion of H. contortus when pastures remained ungrazed but not when pastures were grazed, because cattle selectively grazed H. contortus after burning. Burning reduced the proportion of Aristida spp and other undesirable grasses such as Bothriochloa decipiens and Chloris divaricata. A strong ‘year of burning’ effect was evident.

Burning increased recruitment of H. contortus which, in turn, increased plant density and later basal area. Burning reduced the basal area of Aristida spp initially by reducing tussock size and later by reducing tussock numbers.

Results indicate that spring burning can restore pasture composition and that burning in at least 2 successive years appears to be necessary. Light stocking rates should be adopted so that the proportion of H. contortuscan be maintained and so that pastures can be burnt when and if required.

Item Type:Article
Keywords:Aristida spp., basal area, pasture composition, seedling recruitment
Subjects:Agriculture > Agriculture (General) > Agriculture and the environment
Agriculture > Agriculture (General) > Conservation of natural resources
Live Archive:19 Mar 2024 03:01
Last Modified:19 Mar 2024 03:01

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