Exploratory trials on reinforcement of veld with legumes in the south-eastern Transvaal Highveld.

Abstract

Summarizes the results of a number of trials conducted in the south-eastern Transvaal to assess the feasibility and potential of reinforcing veld with legumes. Reports on experience gained with respect to methods of establishment, the adaptation of a range of legumes to the local environment, responses to fertilization and the reaction of legumes to fire and grazing; The feasibility and potential of reinforcing veld with legumes in the south-eastern Transvaal highveld was assessed in a number of trials during the period 1974-84. Experience was gained with regard to methods of establishment, adaptation of legumes to the local environment, responses to fertilization, especially with lime and superphosphate, and the reaction of legumes to fire and grazing. In all, 17 legumes were involved, including the genera Coronilla, Desmodium, Glycine, Lespedeza, Lotus, Macroptillium, Medicago, Neotononia, Trifolium and Vigna. Only Coronilla varia (crownvetch) showed a satisfactory degree of persistence. However, crownvetch is slow to establish, is intolerant of waterlogging and has a relatively high requirement for lime and phosphate. Considering these features, and the probability of undesirable changes in grass species composition in reinforced veld, it is recommended that intensification be achieved through development of improved pastures for use in conjunction with veld, rather than by means of reinforcement.

Keywords: coronilla varia; desmodium; establishment; Establishment methods; Fertilization; Fire; glycine; Grass species composition; grasses; Grazing; Legume adaptation; Legumes; lespedeza; Lime; lotus; macroptilium; medicago; neotononia; Pasture; pastures; phosphate; species composition; Superphosphate; Transvaal Highveld; trifolium; Veld; Veld reinforcement; vigna

Journal of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa.