Reseed with climate-smart grass to mitigate cost increases

When it comes to reseeding this spring, high input costs and a desire for environmental stewardship are influencing farmers’ decisions.

To gain both economically and environmentally, Germinal believes selecting the best grass seed mix is a vital first step.

As a specialist forage plant breeder, Germinal is enhancing agricultural productivity in the face of today’s climate challenges by developing products fit for the future.

Our Aber High Sugar Grasses (Aber HSG) range includes varieties bred specifically to support livestock production, require fewer inputs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from grazing animals.

They convert into more milk and meat and are 25-50% more responsive to nitrogen than permanent pasture.

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The environmental value of Aber High Sugar Grasses

The higher water-soluble carbohydrate (sugar) content of Aber HSG varieties delivers extra available energy allowing more protein to be used in meat and milk production.

With less protein wasted, the production of ammonia and methane falls.

Aber HSG mixtures are also available with Germinal red and white clovers, which can fix atmospheric nitrogen and provide high-quality protein.

Red and white clovers fix nitrogen at a rate of 150kg N/ha, releasing it to other plants and reducing the need for nitrogen fertiliser.

And with a commitment to innovation reflecting what’s most needed on farm, our research and development team, Germinal Horizon, has bred a new generation of red clovers.

Overcoming red clover’s lack of persistency, these new varieties last at least four years in a cutting sward and are significantly more tolerant of grazing.

The impact of Aber HSG on livestock performance

Germinal’s Aber HSG mixtures include perennial ryegrass, the top choice for medium and long-term, high yielding, high-quality grass leys suitable for both grazing and cutting.

Aber HSG varieties dominate the most highly rated for metabolisable energy (ME) yield/ha on the Recommended Grass and Clover List (RGCL).

ME is a key determinant of livestock performance. Even a small rise in ME can translate into important increases in milk production and liveweight gain.

© Germinal GB

Finding the best varieties with the maximum benefit

Choosing the best grass varieties is essential to maximise the production and environmental benefits.

There are substantial differences between varieties with the best available found on the RGCL.

RGCL varieties are independently tested over four years across the country, ensuring they excel in UK conditions – just one in 20 reaches the final selection.

By using RGCL-approved varieties, you benefit from cutting-edge plant genetics to boost your grassland productivity.

Keeping grass leys performing to their full potential is good grassland management and a powerful tool in efforts to increase carbon capture and protect soil carbon storage.

Choosing Aber HSG high-performing, climate-smart varieties helps you support the environment as well as your farming business.

Click here for more information on Aber HSG