Help farmers pick winners and prosper this season

If your farmers have not yet decided which pasture cultivars represent best value for sowing this autumn, it’s time to talk to them about the latest National Forage Variety Trial results.

That’s the advice from Barenbrug pasture specialist Graham Kerr, who says the NFVT system, which has been running for more than 30 years, and the cultivars it tests, represent the best of what proprietary plant breeding does for New Zealand agriculture.

“We’re not just talking about superior plant genetics being extensively tested prior to market release.

“This is our way, and our industry’s way, of reducing the risk farmers take when they renew their pastures, so they can be confident of a good outcome.”

And with high quality pasture more important than ever for efficient, cost-effective milk and meat production, carefully considering ryegrass choice this autumn is time well spent.

“We’re really proud that Array has remained unbeaten among diploid perennials for yield in the national NFVT rankings that have been just released for the 2024/25 year,” Kerr says.

Array is not the only stand-out, however.

Barenbrug has bred three of the top four perennials in the latest results, including Maxsyn and Tyson; 4front has topped the tetraploid ryegrasses tested, and Forge has come out on top of the national hybrid ryegrass category, with Shogun NEA12 number two.

“These results are an endorsement of our on-going effort to develop ryegrasses that both add value to today’s farm businesses, and minimise the risk of a poor result.”

And with latest industry sales figures for proprietary pasture seed confirming that Maxsyn is now the top selling diploid perennial ryegrass in NZ, with 4front the top selling tetraploid, and Forge Barenbrug’s top selling hybrid, there’s maybe an even more telling endorsement from the most important stake holders of all – farmers themselves.

“They’re recognising the value of these pastures, and repeatedly buying them for the gains they are delivering to them.”

Cultivar choice is a critical first step in sowing strong new pasture, as it determines a range of things including longevity, seasonal growth and heading date. But it’s important to remember this is just part of the check-list for success, Kerr says.

“Pasture renewal is like a chain made up of many different links, from choosing the right paddocks, soil testing, checking for pests and achieving a good spray out right through to using the correct seed drill.

“Each link is as important as the next, and if one is weak, the chain is compromised.

“That’s why it’s always a great idea for your farmers to have someone walk the farm with them, to share ideas and come up with a robust renewal plan.

“Reseller reps, consultants and contractors are all super helpful in this context, and our area managers are always available to support you too.”