THE NEW FODDER

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20821, 3 June 1939, Page 26 (Supplement)

THE NEW FODDER

PAMPAS GRASS LOWERING COSTS The most Important task facing the farmer at the present time is that of cutting down his production costs; this may be achieved in various ways but the most profitable way is the use of McClean’s Pampas Grass. Early spring grass is rich In protein and minerals, but poor in carbohydrates. Pampas contains under ten per cent, protein but has a large proportion of crude fibre of high digestibility, which makes it essentially a carbohydrate food. Pampas grass Is a fodder that has come into prominence in New Zealand only during recent years, but analysis of “McCiean’s” Pampas Grass showing its value as fodder, conclusively proves that this grass has an economic value hitherto undreamed of and a definite place on every farm in the future.

“McCiean's” Pampas Grass is the result of many years experimenting and systematic planting by Mr A. McClean, Waitakaruru, Hauraki Plains. There are many varieties of pampas grass, some that cattle will not eat, and others so coarse that their value is doubtful, but Mr McClean, by starting fifteen years aa:o with a selected plant, and by careful selection year by year, has built up his nurseries with a specially palatable strain, some of which have been despatched to all parts of the world.

The value of this grass Is shown in Mr McClean’s returns this year. On 200 acres, 20 of which are in Pampas and 180 acres in other pastures he wintered 125 cows, 30 other cattle and 200 sheep without hay or any other supplementary fodder. This present year production is down about 15 per cent, from factory returns of butter fat, to the end of April, but Mr McClean show's an increase of 900 lbs. of fat over last season, being 5 per cent, up, showing, with pampas grass, Mr McClean is 20 per cent, better off than the ordinary farmer. On a farm at the hack of Frankton pampas is growing on deep peat and all stock has wintered particularly well. “McClean’s” Pampas Grass is very necessary to farmers to-day and some features that have been proved by independent farmers are worthy of note —Careful calculations show' that a saving of Id to 2d per lb. butterfat is possible—it solves labour problems, as no hay, ensilage or root crops are necessary, yet production and health of stock are outstanding-(for example: Mr McClean has not made hay or ensilage on his property in the last six years, rotational grazing of pampas plants taking the place of feeding out. It is much easier to open two gates and let stock in than to feed out, the elimination of the drudgery and expense of providing hay constituting a great advance on present-day methods. Farmers who have visited Mr McClean’s property have remarked *on the healthy condition of liis stock) —can be used as supplementary fodder both in summer and winter, the roots going down several feet giving moisture and minerals not reached by other crops, thus ensuring succulent feed during the summer when drought conditions often prevail—increases carrying capacity.

After years of careful trial, Mr McClean has thoroughly proved the value of his pampas grass and its use is extending throughout New Zealand. Farmers visiting the Waikato Winter Show' should call at the Farmers’ Auctioneering Company’s stand in Bledisloe Hall (or call ‘at any of the Farmers’ Auctioneering Company’s branches), where further particulars, literature and any information covering this coming Supplementary Fodder will be gladly given. ‘ 80