Hunter River Lucerne Seeds
Botanical Name: Medicago sativa
Deep-rooted perennial.
Nitrogen fixer and forage legume.
Suited to temperate and subtropical climates.
Hunter River is a proven, Australian-bred lucerne variety valued for its persistence, nitrogen-fixing ability, and reliable forage quality. Ideal for pasture, cover cropping, and green manuring, it supports soil health, attracts pollinators, and performs best in well-drained, fertile soils.
- Fixes atmospheric nitrogen, reducing fertiliser needs.
- Improves soil structure and adds organic matter.
- Deep taproots break up compacted soil and enhance drainage.
- Excellent forage and ground cover with strong regrowth after cutting or grazing.
- Flowers attract bees and beneficial insects for biodiversity.
Plant Details:
- Plant Type: Perennial legume, drought-tolerant once established
- Height: 50–90 cm
- Frost Tolerance: Yes – tolerates cold winters
- Pest Note: Not aphid-resistant – monitor during warmer months
Sowing Information:
- Sow When:
Temperate: Autumn–Spring
Subtropical: Late Autumn–July
Tropical: Not recommended (choose tropical lucerne types)
Cool: Autumn–Spring, avoid frost on young seedlings
Arid: Autumn–Winter, sow after rain or with irrigation - Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: 0.5–1.5 cm deep
- Position: Full sun
- Sow Where: Direct into pasture, cropping beds, or broadacre plots
- Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil with pH 6.0–8.0; avoid acidic and waterlogged soils
- Spacing: 5–10 kg/ha in pasture mixes; 12–20 kg/ha for pure stands
When to Sow Hunter River Lucerne in Your Climate
| Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Temperate | Autumn–Spring | Ensure good soil moisture during establishment; avoid extreme cold when sowing. |
| Subtropical | Late Autumn–July | Plant during cooler months for best establishment before summer. |
| Tropical | Not recommended | Use tropical-adapted varieties such as Aurora Lucerne or legumes like lablab. |
| Cool | Autumn–Spring | Sow after frosts or with protection for young plants. |
| Arid | Autumn–Winter | Sow following rain or irrigate to establish; mulch to conserve moisture. |
Quick Growing Guide
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Germination Time | 7–14 days |
| Sowing Depth | 0.5–1.5 cm |
| Watering | Keep moist during establishment; deep watering during dry spells encourages root depth. |
| Growth Period | Perennial – long-term soil builder and forage source |
| Incorporation | Cut before flowering and dig in or leave as surface mulch for soil improvement. |