Lucerne powers lambing

Joining ewes on lucerne can stimulate more eggs to be released from the ovaries. 

According to research Merino ewes grazing on lucerne prior to ovulation to improve ovulation rates could play a big part in increasing conception rates. 

Ewes that were joined on the green pasture were in better condition and showed a greater percentage of twins results when scanned. 

Research showed 12% more lambs in the mob of ewes that grazed on lucerne during joining and 10% more twins. Ewes were in condition score two-three before joining. It just goes to show there are big gains to be made using lucerne not just for fattening prime lambs but also for the Merino.

In South Africa it is generally recommended that lucerne be planted in the autumn.