Plantain is a short-lived perennial herb that performs well in a range of pastures around New Zealand. Ecotain^® environmental plantain is winter active, upright forage species. They are a broad-leaved, coarse rooted herb that can adapt to a range of soils, rainfalls and other environmental conditions.

Over the last few years forage herbs have become a major part of summer-proofing farm systems nationwide. The benefits to farms have been well researched and supported by industry groups such as DairyNZ and Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

Pure sward chicory, plantain or Ecotain environmental plantain are being used by many farmers as a multi-graze crop to boost farm production and profit. The key to any farm business is understanding which of these crops best matches their animal demands.

Agronomic benefits

• Very similar annual DM quantity and quality to ryegrass pasture
• Increases feed quality and/or supply during summer and autumn
• Improves speed of sward recovery after summer dry
• Improves cool season activity of pasture base
• Suitable as a 2-3 year crop option
• Establishes and competes in perennial ryegrass pastures

Animal performance benefits

• Positive impact on milk production when grass quality drops in summer
• Elevated mineral content (Zn, Cu, Se, Mg, Ca, K)
• Has the potential to reduce facial eczema spore levels
• Reduces dag production in sheep
• Liveweight gain benefits with higher dressing out percentage in lambs and cattle