The effect of supplementing serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma) with urea and molasses on the liveweight of sheep

Abstract

Merino wethers forced to graze unsupplemented serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma (Nees) Hack.) in spring 1961 sustained severe liveweight losses. These weight losses were not significantly reduced by supplementing the serrated tussock with urea, molasses, or urea plus molasses, despite a significant increase in intake on all supplemented treatments. The application of urea significantly increased the apparent crude protein content of the tussock foliage immediately after spraying. After grazing, the apparent crude protein content of the tussock fell to its original level despite two applications of urea, one on the first day and one on the fourth day, each week. Results of this trial, and the practical difficulties of applying urea and molasses, indicate that supplementing serrated tussock in this way would be of little practical importance.