Issuu

Pasture Grasses Guide

Establishment Guarantee At AlfaGen Seeds, we stand behind the quality of our proprietary seed and always aim for the best outcome for our farmers. Our Establishment Guarantee is straightforward: if your seed doesn’t establish successfully within 30 days, we’ll replace it at half the original price. It’s a commitment that helps you save on replanting costs and plant with confidence, knowing we’re here to support you. Plant with confidence, backed by the support of AlfaGen Seeds. Terms and conditions apply

2 Pasture grasses guide

Why choose AlfaGen Seeds? At AlfaGen Seeds, our roots run deep into the land we love. No jargon, just real talk about how we can make a real difference. We understand the soil under your fingernails, the early morning starts, and the sheer determination it takes to make things grow. With decades of hands-on experience and local know-how, we’re here to share what we’ve learned. Australian grown, our knowledge comes straight from the field, farm-tested for Aussie conditions. Our aim is simple - to support Aussie farmers with the best seeds, the right information, and a helping hand. We’ll provide you with not only top-notch seeds but also the knowledge and tools to help you grow. It all starts with a seed.

Pasture grasses guide 3

Why choose ryegrass as a forage option? Ryegrass is a highly versatile forage option, popular amongst Australian farmers for its adaptability, nutritional benefits, and exceptional growth performance. Let’s explore why it could be the ideal choice for your pasture needs.

Climate adaptability Ryegrass is well suited to Australia’s diverse climates, with varieties ranging from annual to biannual and perennial options. Its resilience to cold winters and adaptability to different soil types make it a reliable choice for regions where other forages may struggle. Warm vs. cool climates:

I n cooler regions, ryegrass is valued for its high productivity during autumn and winter, prolific growth in spring, and even extended productivity into summer. In regions with hot summers, annual and Italian ryegrass provide productive forage from winter through to spring.

Seasonal flexibility:

ith annual, biannual, and perennial options, farmers can choose the type of ryegrass W that best aligns with their pasture planning and farming operations.

Soil type suitability:

yegrass performs well in a range of soil types and conditions, including light or heavy R soils and those with lower pH ranges.

Heading dates:

erennial ryegrass cultivars offer a range of heading dates (when >50% of seed heads P emerge), allowing farmers to optimise productivity for their region. For areas with an early end to spring and limited summer rainfall, earlier maturing types are recommended. Conversely, in irrigated regions like southern dairy zones, late-maturing options maintain vegetative growth later in the season, supporting prolonged productivity in grazing systems.

High nutritional value for livestock Ryegrass is known for its digestible energy and protein content which supports weight gain and milk production, making it an excellent choice for cattle, sheep, and dairy farming. Protein levels: Ryegrass typically contains 15–25% protein, promoting growth and production in livestock. Digestibility:

4 Pasture grasses guide

I ts high digestibility ensures efficient energy conversion, leading to better livestock health and productivity compared to some other forage types.

Soil improvement potential Beyond its benefits for livestock, ryegrass contributes to soil health in several ways: Weed suppression:

I ts dense, fast-establishing nature outcompetes weeds for sunlight and nutrients, naturally reducing weed pressure.

Soil structure improvement: R yegrass roots improve soil aeration and reduce compaction over time, enhancing longterm soil health. Additionally, the high production output from ryegrass supports quicker stock turn-off, minimising the impact of livestock on soils by reducing compaction.

Fast growth and quick return on investment For farmers seeking rapid pasture establishment, ryegrass offers impressive growth rates. Its quick germination makes it ideal for filling gaps left by other forage varieties and provides flexibility in sowing times and methods. Cost-effectiveness:

ompared to some perennial grasses that may require higher initial inputs, annual and C Italian ryegrass offer an excellent return on investment due to their rapid establishment and reliable growth cycles.

Fodder bank:

yegrass retains its nutrients well after cutting, making it a great option for hay and R silage. This allows farmers to “bank” feed reserves for periods of lower production.

Enhanced persistence with novel endophytes Endophytes, naturally occurring fungi in grasses like ryegrass and tall fescue, protect the plants from insect pests and overgrazing. The introduction of novel endophytes, such as CM142, carefully selected for improved persistence and animal safety, has further enhanced the productivity and lifespan of modern perennial and hybrid ryegrass cultivars. Learn more about endophytes on page 8. For Australian farmers looking to boost pasture productivity, ryegrass stands out as a reliable and flexible forage solution. Its adaptability to diverse climates, nutritional value, and costeffectiveness make it an excellent choice for dairy, cattle, or mixed livestock farming. Ryegrass offers a robust, sustainable option for meeting the diverse needs of farmers across the country.

Pasture grasses guide 5

Diploids and tetraploids Ryegrass cultivars are available in two forms: diploid and tetraploid. A diploid cultivar contains two sets of chromosomes per cell, totalling 14 chromosomes. A tetraploid cultivar has four sets of chromosomes (28 total), created by treating seeds in a solution before breeding begins.

Why use tetraploids? Ryegrass is naturally a diploid species, but breeders developed tetraploids to improve production and feed value.

Advantages

Disadvantages

⊕

⊕ ⊕

arger cells boost sugars, reduce fiber, and L improve livestock intake Trials show ~10% gains in animal performance igger stems and leaves may increase pasture B growth

⊕

ower tiller density reduces grazing L tolerance in dry or wet conditions ess persistent in suboptimal environments L or pastures needing 3+ years

To address lower tiller density, breeders have developed tetraploid cultivars with improved grazing tolerance and persistence, making them comparable to diploids.

Other differences Appearance:

Tetraploids have darker, more glossy leaves.

Seed size: Tetraploid seeds are larger, requiring adjustments to sowing rates (e.g. if diploids are sown at 20kg/ha, tetraploids should be at least 25-28kg/ha).

Summary of choices Annual ryegrass: Tetraploids are commonly chosen for their production advantages, as persistence is less relevant. Italian ryegrass:

Use tetraploids for short-term pastures. Choose diploids for multi-year pastures.

Hybrid & perennial ryegrass: For maximum performance in optimal environments, tetraploids are preferred. In challenging conditions, where pastures are likely to be stressed from dry summers and/or wet winters, diploids offer greater reliability and persistence.

Tetraploid advancements continue to bridge the gap with diploids, giving farmers more flexibility based on their goals and environment.

6 Pasture grasses guide

The importance of tiller density The tiller density of ryegrass pastures has a significant impact on their persistence and tolerance to grazing. A tiller is a part of the ryegrass plant that includes a stem and up to four leaves. A pasture with high tiller density is one that has relatively more stems within the same unit of area. In perennial ryegrass plants, new tillers are formed every year to promote persistence. In Australian conditions, these new tillers develop predominantly from autumn to spring. However, from mid-spring to autumn, very few new tillers are formed. During summer, tiller death increases due to heat and drought stress. This results in tiller density and ground cover reaching the lowest point by the “autumn break” — the time when sufficient rainfall and cooler conditions allow plants to recover. Low ground cover at this point reduces winter productivity and makes pastures more susceptible to invasion by winter weeds such as winter grass and capeweed, which can compromise persistence. Consequently, plant breeders have observed that ryegrass breeding lines with higher tiller density tend to be more persistent. Like other breeders, our plant breeders have selected lines that exhibit high total and cool-season growth while also prioritising higher tiller density and ground cover to ensure new varieties are both productive and persistent.

A high tiller density plant has more tillers, finer stems, and leaves and greater ground cover

High tiller density also benefits annual and Italian ryegrasses. These species are highly productive during winter and early spring, enabling frequent grazing. This frequent grazing often occurs when soils are wet, which can damage pastures. Ryegrass pastures with higher tiller density are more resilient to grazing damage and recover more quickly by forming new tillers, ensuring sustained production later in the season. Greater ground cover also has environmental benefits. By reducing surface runoff during rainfall, it helps minimise soil erosion and the loss of topsoil and nutrients into waterways. This improves the response of pastures to subsequent rain and supports better growth. With our focus on tiller density and ground cover, we are confident that our ryegrass varieties will not only meet farmers’ production expectations but also maximise persistence and reduce long-term costs.

A low tiller density plant has less ground cover, larger stems and leaves

Almonta CM142 demonstrating its high tiller density – Ebor trial site, October 2024

Pasture grasses guide 7

What are endophytes? Endophytes are fungi that live inside some ryegrass plants, influencing insect tolerance, pasture persistence and production, animal health, and stock performance. Over many years, endophytes and ryegrass plants have co-evolved in nature, forming a mutually beneficial relationship. Endophytes move into the ryegrass seed before harvest, and when the seed germinates, the endophyte grows within the plant for its entire life span. Together, the endophyte and the plant produce alkaloid compounds that are distributed throughout the plant. These alkaloids serve various purposes such as deterring insect pests, reducing damage and improving the plant’s longevity and productivity. However, some alkaloids can affect the nervous system and blood circulation of animals that consume the plant.

Image: 5 different commercial endophytes on agar plates in the lab, including CM142 endophyte.

What are the benefits? YIELD BOOST

without endophyte

with endophyte

PROTECTION AGAINST VARIOUS PESTS AND DISEASES

without endophyte

with endophyte

CLIMATE ADAPTABILITY

without endophyte

with endophyte

What endophytes are available? Naturally occurring endophytes (also called “standard,” “wild,” or “toxic” endophytes) enhance insect tolerance and pasture persistence in perennial ryegrass but can also cause ryegrass staggers, heat stress, and reduced animal growth and reproduction. Standard endophyte is not recommended because of its significant negative impact on animal health. In recent decades, scientists have developed strains of endophytes with fewer harmful alkaloids while retaining the beneficial ones. These are called novel endophytes and have been incorporated into various new hybrid, perennial, and Italian ryegrass cultivars. There is a range of novel endophyte types available. Some are very safe for animals but offer less insect tolerance than standard endophytes. Others provide strong insect tolerance but can still cause ryegrass staggers. More recently, endophytes have been developed that maximise insect tolerance while eliminating negative impacts on animals.

Farmers have several options when selecting ryegrass cultivars Perennial and hybrid cultivars with standard endophyte (SE): These improve insect tolerance and pasture persistence but come with risks such as ryegrass staggers and reduced animal performance. Low endophyte (LE) perennial ryegrass seed: This option minimises harm to animals but makes pastures more susceptible to insect damage and less persistent in regions where those insects are prevalent. Perennial, hybrid, and Italian ryegrass cultivars with novel endophytes: These cultivars provide improved insect protection while minimising harmful effects on animals. Farmers should select novel endophytes that best balance insect tolerance with animal safety. Note: Endophyte options are not relevant when choosing annual ryegrass cultivars.

8 Pasture grasses guide

CM142 CM142 is a novel endophyte discovered and researched by scientists from Cropmark Seeds. After screening thousands of ryegrass samples from around the world, they discovered this exciting new endophyte from a dry, infertile semi-alpine region of Greece. It was during early research that their science team quickly recognised that CM142 provided excellent protection from insect pests. Importantly, CM142 also reduces the risk of ryegrass staggers and improves animal performance when compared with standard endophyte.

Thoroughly researched and tested on farm Once discovered, the team of scientists embarked on years of research and on-farm trials to test the efficacy of this new novel endophyte – named by Cropmark as CM142. CM142 showed the ability to be successfully transmitted into seed, allowing vigorous testing to continue. It was included in the Cropmark breeding programme to check its long-term compatibility and stability in ryegrass. Grasses with CM142 have been tested by independent entomologists in New Zealand and Australia, with results confirming it provides strong insect tolerance for ryegrass plants. Animal safety and performance are paramount when it comes to novel endophytes. Five years of rigorous animal safety testing have confirmed that CM142 offers enhanced animal safety compared to standard endophytes. It has received the Plant Breeding and Research Association’s highest animal safety rating (++++), outperforming other epoxy-janthitrem-producing novel endophytes such as AR37 and NEA12.

Benefits of CM142 endophyte With a different genetic background to other endophytes and optimal levels of epoxy-janthitrem alkaloids, CM142 delivers performance and persistence for Australian farmers. Rigorous entomology experiments have shown that CM142 provides tolerance against a range of destructive pasture pests, including Argentine stem weevil, black beetle adults, porina caterpillar and root aphid.

Safer for animals, hard on pests Clinical and sub-clinical animal toxicosis can come with a hefty price tag for farmers, therefore finding a balance between animal safety and alkaloid production for insect deterrence is key. With CM142, there’s an optimal concentration of the epoxy-janthitrem alkaloid, shown in trials to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of ryegrass staggers from animals consuming grass with CM142 compared with standard endophyte. All trials with CM142 in AlfaGen Seeds ryegrass varieties have found there is no reduction in the growth of sheep when compared with nil endophyte. As CM142 has not been tested on deer or horses, it is not recommended for these animals.

We are excited to have CM142 available in our high-performance ryegrass varieties. An effective endophyte improves the persistence of ryegrass pastures in many regions of Australia. We have selected varieties to have very good grazing tolerance and ability to recover from wet winters and dry summers. Having CM142 in our varieties ensures farmers will get the best possible pest protection and persistence in their environment.

Technical Services Manager AlfaGen Seeds

“

Gavin Milne

“

The new CM142 endophyte, matched with the latest ryegrass genetics, offers producers a unique combination of ryegrass productivity and improved animal health. CM142 alkaloid production is balanced for effective insect protection and minimal risk of negative animal health or production effects.

Dr. Matthew Deighton Technical Manager Cropmark Seeds

“

Pasture grasses guide 9

Which ryegrass is right for me? When selecting a ryegrass cultivar for your farm, consider the following key factors How long do I want it to survive for?

What are my ploidy options?

Up to 1 year

Annual

Tetraploid

1-2 years

Italian

Tetraploid

Diploid

2-5 years

Hybrid

Tetraploid

5+ years

Perennial

Tetraploid Diploid

10 Pasture grasses guide

The AlfaGen Seeds cultivar that suits my needs is

early

Tetrone

mid

Koga Kiama TH

late

SEED O EW

When do I need the quality most?

E B LO C

Mazzoletti TH

late

SEED O EW

Loader

E B LO C

SEED O EW

Greenmount CM142

E B LO C

The AlfaGen Seeds cultivar that suits my needs is

Coorong CM142

yes

Middini CM142 TH

Moana

yes no

SEED O EW

late

E B LO C

mid

SEED O EW

yes

late

SEED O EW

Do you require an endophyte to assist in persitence in your region?

Almonta CM142 TH

late

E B LO C

Sorrento N

late

Bermagui

mid

SEED O EW

Maheno

E B LO C

San Remo

Pasture grasses guide 11

Kiama

SEED O EW

E B LO C

TETRAPLOID ANNUAL RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum/Westerwolds

e e e e ee e e

Lifespan

Short-term pasture

Ploidy

Tetraploid

Heading date Late (+20 days)

Recommended sowing rate 25-30kg/ha

Suitability Grazing Hay Silage

Seed treatment

None/ XLR8® optional

⊕ Outstanding production Provides large amounts of high-quality feed to maximise profitability

⊕ Rapid establishment and growth

Quick to first grazing and fast regrowth after subsequent grazing

⊕ Late heading date

Maintains feed quality later into spring Allows for greater flexibility when cutting for hay or silage without compromising on quality

⊕ High tiller density and fine leaf

Improves tolerance to grazing when soils are wet, and enhances recovery Extends production in late spring High feed density, enabling higher animal intake Ebor Annual Ryegrass Trial 2023 The 2023 annual ryegrass trial at Ebor demonstrated the excellent winter feed production Kiama can deliver. 12000

11074 10237

9708

9695

Adrenalin Hogan 2

Fuze

10000

9438

9326

8000 6000 4000 2000 0

Kiama

Speedyl Ascend

CV=15% n.s. Sown: 13th April 2023 Harvest method: Plots harvested and weighed; sub

samples taken from each plot for DM% Irrigation: No irrigation applied

12 Pasture grasses guide

“

There were already several highly productive varieties of annual ryegrass available when the breeding for Kiama began. So, a lot of time and effort was invested in developing something at least as good as the existing varieties, but with additional benefits. We have tested Kiama in many trials across Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales, and it has performed as well as we expected,” Gavin explains. “Compared to other varieties, it offers leading production during autumn and winter, along with extended growth and quality in spring. It should be a top choice for farmers needing more feed during the cooler months.

Gavin Milne

Technical Services Manager

“

Quick Seed Facts

Kiama tetraploid annual ryegrass is an outstanding new variety for maximising production and profitability. It has an unusually high tiller density and fine leaf for a tetraploid ryegrass, and this enables Kiama to recover better after grazing and extend production throughout spring. The late heading date of Kiama allows it to maintain high value feed into late spring, for better stock performance and quality of silage.

Middini CM142

SEED O EW

E B LO C

DIPLOID PERENNIAL RYEGRASS : Lolium perenne

Middini CM142 perennial ryegrass is an early-maturing diploid ryegrass featuring the CM142 novel endophyte. Bred for strong persistence in sheep, beef and dairy environments, in regions where the season finishes early. Improved winter and early spring growth provides feed when it is needed and then leads into an excellent hay production period.

Quick Seed Facts

rainfall zones

Excellent winter and spring growth leading to greater liveweight production gains in cooler months

⊕ High tiller density and plant persistence in drier environments

Ploidy

Improved grazing tolerance and recovery, leading to a more persistent pasture

Diploid

Heading date

⊕ CM142 endophyte

Early (+1 days)

Recommended sowing rate

For improved insect protection and reduced animal health risks over standard endophyte options

‣ Not recommended for horses

20-25kg/ha

Suitability

2021 Diploid Perennial Ryegrass Trial - Warragul, VIC

Grazing

The 2021 trial at Warragul demonstrates that Middini CM142 not only offers strong persistence but also delivers excellent production.

Hay Silage

Seed treatment

14000

None/ XLR8® optional

12000

10000

8000 6000 4000 2000

Re as

N EA 4 on Al m AR on 37 ta C M M id 14 di 2 ni C Pl M at 14 fo rm 2 AR Le 37 gi on AR 37 So m er Pr se os t pe c t Im AR pa 37 ct II N EA M 2 at rix O SE ne 50 AR 37

ax s

kg DM/ha

e e e ee e e

erennial P Long-term pasture in environments suitable for perennial ryegrass

⊕ Early-maturing type suited to early-finishing

Lifespan

Middini

Sig. = 0.000 LSD (5%) = 539 %CV = 2.9 Mean annual yield over 3 years

Pasture grasses guide 13

Almonta CM142

SEED O EW

E B LO C

DIPLOID PERENNIAL RYEGRASS : Lolium perenne

20-25kg/ha

Suitability Grazing Hay Silage

Seed treatment

None/ XLR8® optional

⊕ CM142 endophyte

For improved insect protection and reduced animal health risks over standard endophyte options

‣ Not recommended for horses

2021 Diploid Perennial Ryegrass Trial - Warragul, VIC The trial at Warragul shows the excellent winter performance of Almonta CM142 compared to other leading ryegrass cultivars.

kg DM/ha

1500

Recommended sowing rate

Resulting in good pasture growth throughout winter, spring and into summer = feed when you need it most

Late (+15 days)

⊕ Excellent dry matter production

Heading date

Maintains a vegetative state for a longer period allowing for better pasture utilisation to provide high-quality late-season feed

Diploid

⊕ Late heading date with low aftermath heading

AR 37

Ploidy

Delivering strong persistence and recovery from grazing

AR 3

e e e ee e e

erennial P Long-term pasture in environments suitable for perennial ryegrass

⊕ High tiller density

Lifespan

AR 37

Quick Seed Facts

Almonta CM142 perennial ryegrass is a high performance, lateheading, diploid variety bred to maximise seasonal pasture growth and quality. It has been bred to have high tiller density and tiller production, resulting in very good tolerance to grazing in dry or wet conditions. Almonta contains CM142 endophyte to improve tolerance to pasture insects, therefore maximising persistence.

1000 500

14 2 M

M id

rix at M

ct II N

or m tf

Pl a

ne O

so Re a

ax M

Pr os pe

NE A4

Sig= 0.000 LSD(5%) = 101 %CV = 4.6 Mean winter yield over 3 years

14 Pasture grasses guide

Coorong CM142

SEED O EW

E B LO C

TETRAPLOID PERENNIAL RYEGRASS : Lolium perenne

Coorong CM142 is a late-maturing tetraploid perennial ryegrass featuring the CM142 novel endophyte for tolerance to pasture insects and maximised persistence. It’s designed for high-performance farming systems, offering high tiller density and excellent grazing tolerance without sacrificing palatability or productivity. It has a late heading date for enhanced stock performance.

Quick Seed Facts

Ploidy

Tetraploid

Heading date Late (+20 days)

Recommended sowing rate 25-30kg/ha

Suitability Grazing Hay Silage

Maintains feed quality late into the season

⊕ Tetraploid provides a pasture option more readily accepted by stock

Helps to improve feed intake and stock performance leading to improved liveweight gains

⊕ High tiller density

Improves grazing tolerance and recovery, leading to more persistent pastures

⊕ Cool-season growth

Providing more feed when it’s most valuable

⊕ CM142 endophyte

For improved insect protection and reduced animal health risks over standard endophyte options

‣ Not recommended for horses

2021 Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrass Trial - Warragul, VIC

Seed treatment

The trial results show comparative dry matter production to the market leading competitor varieties, providing you with an alternative that you can rely on.

None/ XLR8® optional

14000 12000 kg DM/ha

e e e ee e e

erennial P Long-term pasture in environments suitable for perennial ryegrass

⊕ Late-maturing perennial ryegrass

Base AR37

Reward ENDO5

Coorong CM142

Viscount NEA4

10000

8000 6000 4000 2000 0

Bealey NEA2

Sig= 0.001 LSD(5%) = 524 %CV = 2.7 Mean annual yield over 3 years

“

While the paddocks are in their establishment year, they have established well in both environments. One paddock was directly drilled into an existing pasture, and the other paddock was fully cultivated. The tiller density is what has impressed me the most.

“

Lifespan

Brad Vanderland Dennison Region Victoria

Pasture grasses guide 15

E B LO C

SEED O EW

E B LO C

Mazzoletti

Bermagui

Mazzoletti is a new, highly productive tetraploid Italian ryegrass which establishes rapidly and recovers quickly after grazing. The palatability and feed quality of Mazzoletti enables very good stock performance. Mazzoletti maintains this feed quality late into spring and early summer, allowing for extra grazing and flexible cutting dates for silage or hay.

Bermagui is a high-yielding, persistent Italian diploid ryegrass with increased tillering. It provides excellent winter production and maintains high-quality feed into late spring. The high tiller density of Bermagui increases survivability and optimises the potential to produce for more than one year.

TETRAPLOID ITALIAN RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum

DIPLOID ITALIAN RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum

The trial shows Bermagui has excellent ﬁrst-year performance compared with other varieties

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

20-25kg/ha

Heading date

Late (+17 days)

Heading date

Mid (+10 days)

Suitability

Grazing, hay, silage

Suitability

Grazing, hay, silage

Seed treatment

None/XLR8®optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8®optional

⊕ Highly productive medium-term ryegrass to maximise feed production over winter and spring

⊕ High feed value optimises stock performance and

⊕ High tiller density for increased survivability and yield

potential as well as improved recovery from grazing in wet conditions

animal production

⊕ Mid-heading date for strong winter and spring

improved grazing tolerance and recovery after grazing in wet conditions

⊕ Rapid establishment into existing pastures ‣ Not recommended for horses

⊕ High tiller density for a tetraploid Italian ryegrass for ‣ Not recommended for horses

production

Aberdeen Italian Ryegrass Trial - Total Yield The trial shows Bermagui has excellent first-year performance compared with other varieties.

The 2023 trial at Ebor, northern NSW, demonstrated the excellent feed production of Mazzoletti. a

Al lu re

8000

10297 10108 10035 9844 9819 9773 9669 9613 9510

rn o

10000

16461

as tI

17290

17675

nv e

18193

19305

9240

6000 4000 2000

Mazzoletti

Tempo

Nourish

Arise

Accelerate CV=8.47

Sown: 13 April 2023 Harvest method: Plots harvested and weighed; sub samples taken from each plot for DM%

Irrigation: No irrigation applied.

Results with overlapping letter ranges are not significantly different from each other.

16 Pasture grasses guide

s as Am

m Ya

m Te

ag u

rm Be

co r

20000 18000 16000 14000 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0

bu ck

Ebor Italian Ryegrass Trial 2023

Sig.= 0.000 LSD (5%) = 327.8 %CV = 2.3

Sown: 6th April 2023 Harvest method: Whole plots harvested & weighed,

sub samples taken from each plot for DM%

Irrigation: Dry conditions - 2 irrigations were applied post

sowing to aid establishment. A total of 35mm was applied.

Results with overlapping letter ranges are not significantly different from each other.

Greenmount CM142

SEED O EW

E B LO C

TETRAPLOID HYBRID RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum x L. boucheanum

Quick Seed Facts

e e e e ee e e

Lifespan

edium to long-term M pasture in environments suitable for long-term ryegrass

Ploidy

Tetraploid

Heading date Late (+18 days)

Recommended sowing rate 25-30kg/ha

Suitability Grazing Hay Silage

Seed treatment XLR8® (insecticide) recommended, also available as untreated seed

Greenmount CM142 is a late-maturing tetraploid hybrid ryegrass featuring the CM142 novel endophyte for maximised persistence and tolerance to pasture insects. The Italian genetics in Greenmount CM142 result in early vigour and feed production similar to an Italian ryegrass, while the breeding for high tiller density has created a variety with persistence comparable to perennial ryegrass.

⊕ Fast establishment vigour Making it an excellent option for sowing into older pastures to boost production Quick to first grazing

⊕ Very strong autumn and winter growth Increases feed intake in cooler months when you need it most

⊕ Palatable, high-quality feed

Delivering excellent animal performance through increased daily feed intake

⊕ Heading date +18 days

Providing valuable production later into the season

⊕ CM142 endophyte

For improved insect protection and reduced animal health risks over standard endophyte options

‣ Not recommended for horses

NFVT 2020 Hybrid Ryegrass USI Trialled over three winters, Greenmount CM142 consistently delivered the highest dry matter yields compared to key competitor hybrids. 20000 17500

15000

Mohaka AR37

Shogun NEA

12500 10000 7500 5000 2500 0

Greenmount Frenzy NEA CM142

Ohau AR37

Sig= 0.000 LSD(5%) = 1513 %CV = 5.9 Mean winter yield over 3 years

Pasture grasses guide 17

Tetrone

Koga

An early-maturing variety with strong vigour, suited to medium & lower rainfall environments

Provides valuable feed in cooler periods of the year

TETRAPLOID ANNUAL RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum/Westerwolds

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

⊕ Strong seedling & establishment vigour ⊕ High winter production ⊕ Good establishment in cooler soils ⊕ Heading date +5 days

⊕ Rapid establishment and growth ⊕ High winter dry matter yields ⊕ Excellent option for silage/hay production ⊕ Heading date +10 days

Loader

Maheno

A consistently high and profitable performer

Rapid establishing, economical option for a wide range of enterprises

TETRAPLOID ANNUAL RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum/Westerwolds

TETRAPLOID ITALIAN RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

⊕ Quick establishment and growth ⊕ Excellent production ⊕ Extended spring growth ⊕ Heading date +16 days

18 Pasture grasses guide

⊕ Good production late into the season ⊕ Strong seedling vigour ⊕ Late-maturing Italian ryegrass ⊕ Heading date +18 days

Sorrento

Moana

Bred for high winter and spring production

Bred for high production & tiller density; ideal for dairy, beef & sheep in temperate, high-rainfall zones

DIPLOID ITALIAN RYEGRASS : Lolium multiflorum

DIPLOID PERENNIAL RYEGRASS : Lolium perenne

Recommended sowing rate

20-25kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

20-25kg/ha

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

⊕ Quick establishment ⊕ Late heading date (+20 days) for extended growth period

⊕ Good tiller density means it recovers well from grazing/cutting

⊕ Rapid regrowth and high feed production in all

seasons, providing more economical homegrown feed

⊕ Good late winter and early spring growth ⊕ Heading date +14 days ‣ Not recommended for horses

San Remo

DIPLOID PERENNIAL RYEGRASS : Lolium perenne A late-producing variety that extends the period of high-energy and protein-rich pasture into late spring Recommended sowing rate

20-25kg/ha

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

⊕ Very late maturing perennial ryegrass ⊕ High tiller density ⊕ Good winter production ⊕ Heading date +24 days ‣ Not recommended for horses Pasture grasses guide 19

E B LO C

Tathra

Coogee

Developed for durability, strong winter growth, and top animal performance across Australian conditions

Australian-bred for resilience, winter growth, and dependable animal performance

TALL FESCUE : Festuca arundinacea

E B LO C

COCKSFOOT : Dactylis glomerata

Recommended sowing rate

20-25kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

6-10kg/ha

Heading date

Mid

Heading date

Mid

Suitability

Grazing, hay, silage

Suitability

Grazing, hay, silage

Seed treatment

None/XLR8®optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8®optional

⊕ Long-lasting persistence

⊕ Built for drought

⊕ Drought-ready

⊕ Long-term persistence

⊕ Nutritious and palatable

⊕ Palatable and productive

⊕ Reliable cool-season growth

⊕ Reliable cool-season feed

⊕ Locally bred

⊕ Locally adapted

Dense tillers and low growing points make it tolerant to grazing Derived from plants that have survived through severe Australian droughts Soft leaves encourage feed intake, supporting healthy animal growth Produces more feed than conventional tall fescues when pasture is most needed Selected in Australia to handle the typical drought and insect challenges on-farm

20 Pasture grasses guide

SEED O EW

Features unique genetics designed to thrive in dry conditions Selected from plants with a proven track record on Australian farms Soft leaves and rust resistance support strong feed intake and healthy animal growth Rapid growth through colder months when pasture is most needed Bred in Australia to withstand the typical drought, pests, and environmental pressures farmers face

Sunrise

Origin

Deep-rooted perennial with high-quality winter production

Excellent persistence in regions with hot and dry summers, good winter production and animal performance

PHALARIS : Phalaris aquatica

WINTER ACTIVE TALL FESCUE : Festuca arundinacea

Recommended sowing rate

25-30kg/ha

Recommended sowing rate

12-20kg/ha

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

Seed treatment

None/XLR8® optional

⊕ Early-mid maturity ⊕ Low alkaloids ⊕ Increased seedling vigour for

⊕ Exceptional cool-season growth ⊕ Truly summer dormant, enabling strong autumn recovery and drought tolerance

⊕ Tolerant of hot, dry climates

successful establishment

2022 Phalaris trial 10000 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000

st ra

lia n

( C on PW ) fe de r at Ho e ld fa st G PW T Pa PW 12 9 Pa 20 00 5 SF M at St oc e km an

lia

nr is

Au Au

Ad va nc ed

Yield 21/10/22

Yield 21/12/22

Yield 11/07/23

Pasture grasses guide 21

22 Pasture grasses guide

The new bags on the block

New

Lucerne Advisor Discover our complete lucerne range, specifically developed for Australia’s diverse environments.

Scan the QR code to download your copy

Start strong with our seed guide Pasture grasses guide 23

We’re here to help you grow For technical advice, please contact your local Territory Manager

Wide Bay Burnett, South East, Central, Far North QLD & NT

Michael Christensen

Territory Manager michael.christensen@alfagenseeds.com.au 0430 821 029 Northern Rivers NSW, Southern & Central QLD

Chris Hoad

Territory Manager chris.hoad@alfagenseeds.com.au 0407 549 354 Hunter, North West & Mid North Coast NSW

Dan Sweeney

Territory Manager dan.sweeney@alfagenseeds.com.au 0429 146 817 New England NSW

Gavin Milne

Technical Services Territory Manager gavin.milne@alfagenseeds.com.au 0447 966 704 Central NSW

Jack Edwards

Northern Regional Manager jack.edwards@alfagenseeds.com.au 0419 995 418

Central & Northern VIC

Jo Tanner

Territory Manager jo.tanner@alfagenseeds.com.au 0493 043 669 SA, WA & Sunraysia VIC

James Cook

Territory Manager james.cook@alfagenseeds.com.au 0430 353 006 Western VIC, S.E SA, Mallee & Wimmera

Sam Linggood

Territory Manager sam.linggood@alfagenseeds.com.au 0428 854 391 Tasmania & Gippsland

David Squibb

Production & Territory Manager david.squibb@alfagenseeds.com.au 0429 999 155

Dean Lombardozzi

Australian Sales Manager dean.lombardozzi@alfagenseeds.com.au 0497 499 087

Southern NSW

Hugh Graham

Southern Regional Manager hugh.graham@alfagenseeds.com.au 0427 255 292

ee e

08 8445 1111 info@alfagenseeds.com.au alfagenseeds.com.au

iAGS11947

Plant with confidence

Anything else? Get in touch