Plantain is a rapid establishing, deep rooted, drought tolerant, mineral rich, perennial herb, preferably grazed by all classes of livestock.  Tonic is ribbed with a rosette of broad leaves growing from a central crown.  It has a deep root system, with drought tolerance that is similar to orchardgrass.  Tonic is extremely palatable to stock and represents an excellent source of calcium, sodium, copper and selenium.  Plantain will perform in a wide range of soil types and climatic conditions -with dry matter production similar to perennial ryegrass with superior preformance over ryegrass in summer and fall.  

Concentrations of many trace elements are much higher in Tonic than grass/clover pastures. This is potentially an important factor for grazing animals deficient in trace elements.  Adding 20% tonic to ryegrass clover pasture will significantly increase intake of some trace elements.

Establishment vigor is rapid- similar to ryegrass, particularly tonic is cool season active.  

Plantain can be prone to damage from red legged earth mites and slugs, especially at establishment.  Control methods may need to be considered based on pest populations.

The summer and fall production of Tonic Plantain can make a remarkable difference to the overall dry matter production of perennial ryegrass fields.  Due to Tonic Plantain's growth into the summer and faster recovery in the autumn, the ability to consistently generate excess production is amazing.  This enables extra feed during transitioning seasonal periods.  Strong cool season growth and tolerance to a wide range of environments and soil conditions makes this the ideal plantain for year-round production.  This variety has also show real potential as a medium to long-term pasture option, although it does not provide the reliable longevity of some of the more commonly used grass species.  Tonic is an excellent source of the micronutrients Selenium and Copper which makes it excellent for pasture grazing.  Tonic Plantain is the only ceritfied plantain cultivar.. Tonic is a flexible cultivar for pastoral systems, covercrops and all of agriculture.  Tonic is a perennial, upright, cool season forb.  It has a unique root structure allowing surface scavenging and deep mining of the soil.  Drought tolerance and winter productivity in a wide range of environments and soil conditions makes Tonic and important consideration with all grasses and legumes. As a cool season forage, Tonic extends pasture quality in hotter regions traditionally dependent on warm season feed. Tonic is drought tolerant and winter active; thus, is is adapted to Mediterranean climates.  Tonic has been referenced to elevated Copper and Selelenium in sheep and deer and is also a good source of Calcium and Sodium.  Using Tonic is a great way of supporting a high level of animal health, reduced incidence of dags and good micronutrient supply in your stock.  Tonic's noted micronutrient levels can improve animal health.  Tonic contributes to a sustainable farm system.  The upright nature of Tonic and its high digestibility improve feed intake and efficiency. 

Sowing: 

• Plant at 3-5 pounds per acre as a mix,10 pounds per acre as a single stand
• Tonic should be sown in mixtures with grasses, legumes and other forage herbs. (it is recommended that Tonic be sown as part of a mix, or into existing pasture)
• Seed at 4-5 pounds per acre in a chicory or clover mix.
•  Seed 3-4 pounds per acre with prairie grass.
• In colder climates plant Tonic in early spring after weed control.  
• In mild climates plantain can be sown at any time provided there is adequate moisture with best results from fall and spring plantings.
  
• Tonic Plantain may be sown into cultivated ground
• Tonic Plantain may be broadcast from air or ground
• Tonic Plantain may be mulch sown into summer grass
• Tonic Plantain may be drilled into existing pasture