Grassland Productivity

The yield from grassland leys decline over time. This is due to less productive “weed grasses” invading the sward, an increase in broadleaved weeds, flooding, poaching etc. The introduction of new improved grass species to these paddocks, through an on-going pasture renewal programme, markedly improves their productivity and consequently total farm productivity and profitability.

Reseeding can potentially almost double dry matter yields. The aim must be to produce at least 10 tonnes per hectare dry matter and to use at least 80% of it. When considering reseeding, look at the age of the sward and the percentage of sown species remaining. New varieties on average have been increasing yield by approximately 1% per annum. It is very important to get the basics correct when reseeding – soil structure, drainage, pH, phosphate and potash. Every 1 tonne per hectare of dry matter produced has the same energy as 1 tonne of barley (and the grass has a higher protein level).