Based on your decisions above, there’s two suggested actions that you could take. These are displayed below.
Action option 1
Improve stand by pruning, removing rows and establishing inter-row pasture
Pruning: Overgrown saltbush plants can be successfully pruned back to an ideal size to stimulate new growth accessible to sheep.
Removing rows: Shrubs planted too densely are less productive due to increased competition between shrubs. Rows can be removed to allow better pasture growth and access for stock and machinery.
Companion Pasture: By creating more room between saltbush plants, inter-row pasture can be better established and managed.
Action option 2
Refine grazing management and use of supplementary feeds
Annual grazing: To get the best out of forage shrubs, it is important to graze at least annually, and in years of plentiful growth twice a year.
High-density stocking: Stocking densities need to be high to promote even grazing. This usually means that shrubs need to be fenced and paddock size needs to be small.
Train stock to eat shrubs: Sheep that are not used to shrubs need to be introduced to their new diet gradually. A small number of positive, low stress experiences are required to change grazing behaviour.
Looking for more resources?
Download the following fact sheets to learn more information about establishment, management, and control of shrubs.
Guide to Establishing Forage Shrubs
Critical success factors in successful shrub pasture systems
Selecting the best forage shrubs for your environment
Why grow a mixture of forage shrubs and pasture species?
