Cowpea is a great option for legumes this season. Cowpea not only provide a nutritious fodder but also help in fixing nitrogen in your soil.
Cowpeas as forage are rich in protein, fibre, and essential nutrients including iron and other vitamins. The pea itself can be consumed as well as the leafy greens. These legumes can be used as forage and planted each year in the same way as an annual summer crop. Cow peas are one of the mainstays of legume planting in Southeast Queensland.
Cow peas are easy established and produce high forage yields in relatively short period. Cow peas will grow well in a variety of soils including clay soils (providing for adequate drainage) and more acidic soils. They also have good drought tolerance.
One of the benefits of Cowpeas (as with many legumes) is their ability to aid in nitrogen fixation. This happens through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. The nodules on the plant roots attract the bacteria which in turn take nitrogen in the atmosphere and convert it into ammonia. These bacteria add beneficial nitrogen to the soil through this process.
We currently carry varieties of cowpea including Black Stallion™ and Ebony™ and we have access to others.
Ebony™ was developed for use as a green manure crop in sugar cane growing areas and for use as a forage crop in tropical and sub-tropical areas. Other features of Ebony include a long production season, increased dry matter production & improved return post-grazing. Ebony can be also sown into heavier soil types providing an alternative to Lablab. Ebony has good drought tolerance. Good tolerance to periods of heat and moisture stress. Best under warm, humid conditions, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Planting rates vary between 20-40kg/hector.
Black Stallion™ is a relatively new variety. It is well suited to a wide range of soils. Black Stallion™ is high yielding and its late flower makes for a higher production and grazing rates. Planting Rates are between 10-30kg/hector.
We have both these varieties in Stock so visit us in store or give us a call at (07) 4665 3366 to discuss your options.
תגובות