United Kingdom
July 6, 2021
As farmers plan for summer reseeding and overseeding, experts stress careful consideration of grass varieties will significantly increase future grass yields.
“Overseeding straight after silaging provides a great opportunity to ‘stich-in’ grass seeds and repair swards,” explains Alex Law, grassland and forage crop product manager at Carr’s Billington.
Alex Law, grassland and forage crop product manager at Carr’s Billington
“On the other hand, it’s likely that soil is now ready to plough for a summer re-seed, providing soil pH is checked and fertiliser use is carefully monitoring beforehand.”
Although successful reseeding and overseeding relies on multiple factors, for example ensuring adequate moisture levels and control of sward growth once the planting has taken place, Alex reminds farmers that the long-term success of the operation largely comes down to the grass varieties chosen.
“We recommend grass varieties depending on their suitability with the soil type, and this will differ depending on whether you’re intending a complete reseed or an overseed operation. In the case of overseeding, the aim is to choose varieties which will compete with the current grasses during establishment, for example tetraploid perennial ryegrass, hybrid ryegrass, or Italian ryegrass. These varieties grow quickly and achieve a good height meaning they are not smothered by the old grass still in the field.”
Newly established grass varieties offer several benefits in terms of improved palatability to optimise intakes and maximise animal performance from grass. It’s important to remember that optimising this grass performance will depend on soil type and nutrient status.
“For a complete reseed, we are considering the whole sward structure with variety selection and sward density significantly determining long term grass production. In this instance, we include diploid ryegrass varieties with the tetraploid varieties. The diploid varieties are robust and competitive with weeds and provide a good carrying capacity for livestock.
“For those who are unsure on which varieties to select, our comprehensive grass & forage product management guide provides an overview of our high performing grass seed mixtures and recommended varieties to suit your individual farm requirements.”
To receive a copy of the brochure, call the forage line on 08000 234416 or view it online: https://www.carrs-billington.com/blog/2021/02/23/grass-and-forage-2021/
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