grass & forage crops handbook - seed...

Grass & Forage Crops Handbook

2016

Now with additionalLGAN Mixtures

Extensiv

ely re

vised

& expanded

editionIRELAND

INTRODUCTION

Seed Quality 1

Forage Quality & Animal Nutrition 2

Sinclair McGill Monitor Farm 3

Weeds 4

Pests & Diseases 5-9

HEADSTART® GOLD 10

Mixture Selection Chart 11

Short Term Mixtures 12

Medium Term Mixtures 13-15

Matrix Enhanced® Ryegrass Mixtures 16-17

Long Term Mixtures 18-19

Pasture Renovation 20-21

Organic Grass & Clover Mixtures 22

Organic Forage Crops 23

Grass and Clover Varieties 24-25

Key Species for Productive Grassland 26-27

Specialist Crops & Mixtures 28

Forage Chicory 29

Catch Crops 30

Full Season Crops 31

Fodder Mixtures, Arable Silage

& Wholecrop Peas32

Seed Sowing Rates 33

Equestrian Mixtures 34

Amenity Mixtures 35

Distributors & Stockists 36-27

Index

The times they are a-changin' sang Bob Dylan in the 1960s

and that phrase has never been more relevant to Irish

agriculture than today. Climate change, CAP reform

including the abolition of milk quotas, an expanding world

population that needs feeding, as well as the potentially

conflicting need to produce some of our energy

requirements on our farms, are just some of the issues that

represent challenges and opportunities for our farmers.

Plant breeding and associated technology is also moving

forward at a rapid pace. Although GMO in Europe has

virtually been abandoned, the use of techniques such as

genetic markers and doubled haploid breeding is speeding

up conventional plant breeding and bringing exciting new

varieties on to the market faster.

One of the most useful technological developments has

been the employment of NIRS (near infrared spectroscopy)

to measure dry matter and virtually the whole spectrum of

forage quality and nutritional attributes of plants. Used as a

breeding tool in maize and grasses to identify and select

material with superior nutritional attributes, Limagrain have

now developed a number of calibrations which enable us to

map the nutritional qualities of not only new material

coming through the breeding programme, but also varieties

already being marketed.

LG Animal Nutrition was launched as an accreditation for

forage maize varieties which exhibited both enhanced

nutritional properties such as high starch and improved

stem digestibility, combined with excellent agronomic

properties such as yield, early maturity and disease

resistance, a few years ago.

Now the concept has been introduced to grass seed

mixtures formulated so that every kilo of dry matter fed to

your livestock is more efficiently converted in to the

production of meat or milk. This is achieved by carefully

putting together varieties with complementary attributes in

a perfectly balanced mixture. Some highly focused mixtures

have sufficient nutritional attributes to qualify for the LGAN

accreditation, but we now use the NIRS mapping when

constructing all the Sinclair McGill mixtures, ensuring that

even general purpose medium and long term mixtures

deliver the ultimate in both nutritional and agronomic

performance.

So, when you grow a Sinclair McGill grass mixture you are

assured that it has the genetic potential to maximise

production and profitability, whatever your livestock

enterprise.

Introduction

1

SEED QUALITY

Seed Quality

When it comes to grass seed quality, our no-compromise approach is simple - we aim to deliver lessweed seeds and more live seeds than any other company. By specifying the Sinclair McGill brand, youreally can make a significant difference to the performance of your new ley mixture.

Less weed seeds and more live seeds in every bag!

GERMINATION STANDARDS

Species EU HVSPerennial Ryegrass 80% 80%

Italian Ryegrass 75% 75%

Hybrid Ryegrass 75% 75%

PURITY STANDARDS

Species EU HVS

Perennial Ryegrass 96% 98%

Italian Ryegrass 96% 98%

Hybrid Ryegrass 96% 98%

TABLE 2: POSSIBLE INERT MATERIAL IN 10 ACRES OF PERENNIAL RYEGRASS

Inert Material EU HVS Sinclair McGill

Dead Seed 30 kilos 30 kilos 7 kilos*

Impurities 6 kilos 3 kilos 1 kilos*

TABLE 1: POSSIBLE WEED CONTENT IN AN OFFICIAL SAMPLE OF PERENNIAL RYEGRASS (60 gm of seed)

Weed EU HVS Sinclair McGillDocks* 5 5 Less than 1Couch* 120 10 Less than 1Blackgrass* 100 10 Less than 1

* Note: There is no EU standard or test for blackgrass or couch in 60gm so the figures quoted are an estimate based on our laboratory experience.

* Based on the laboratory analysis of our own contract crops and 10 acres being equivalent to 150 kilos of seed.

HVS= Higher voluntary standard

Purity test on grass seed (left). Testing grass seed (above).

THE CORNERSTONE OF A SUCCESSFUL LEY IS A TOP QUALITY SEED MIXTURE FROM THE SINCLAIR MCGILL RANGE

FORAGE QUALITY &

ANIMALNUTRITION

Sinclair McGill has always been at the forefront of bringing thebenefits of mixtures with enhanced nutritional benefits to ourcustomers, so we were pleased to be the first to introduce LGAnimal Nutrition (LGAN) accredited mixtures to the market lastspring.

LGAN offers a “holistic” approach to mixture formulation;balancing the important attributes of WSC (sugars) withdigestible fibre (DNDF), balanced protein, energy and D value. Indoing so we have also ensured the mixtures will exceedexpectations for yield, ground cover, winter hardiness, diseaseresistance and most important; palatability.

Summary of results: Yield feeding and digestion trials Schothorst Feed Research, Lelystad (2013)

Diet 23kg DM/day; 66.5% Grass Silage, 22.5% Maize, 6% Soybean Meal, 2.5% Rapeseed Meal, 2.5% Ground Wheat.

Proof of ConceptThe LGAN concept for maize was launched a few years ago andnow LGAN maize varieties dominate the European market andaccount for nearly 40% of forage maize grown in the UK lastyear. The LGAN concept for grass seed mixtures is also beingrolled out across Europe; in fact some countries have beengrowing LGAN accredited grass mixtures for three years andfarmers are experiencing the benefits for themselves.

In order to validate the concept, the highly respected SchothorstInstitute at Lelystad in The Netherlands was commissioned toconduct independent research to ascertain whether the LGANconcept for improved nutrition produced any benefit for livestockenterprises. As you can see, the results exceeded even our ownexpectations and demonstrate a highly significant improvementto profitable livestock production.

An additional €11,800, due to superior feed quality!As explained in previous editions of this handbook, the use of NIRS(Near Infrared Spectroscopy) has enabled us to evaluate thenutritional attributes of a huge number of varieties. Having thisknowledge at our fingertips enables us to make much more informedchoices when formulating grass and clover mixtures. Although manymixtures will not achieve LGAN accreditation due to other agronomicattributes taking precedence, such as persistency in long term leys, itdoes ensure that we can make vital tweaks to improve the nutritionalquality of all of our mixtures.

2

Recent Developments in Forage Qualityand Animal Nutrition

SCHOTHORST INSTITUTE GRASS FEEDING TRIAL

GIVEN A HYPOTHETICAL SITUATION:

• 100 Milking Cows • 300 days per year milking • Milk price at €0.28c/Litre

Conventional LGAN Dual Benefits % IncreaseDual Purpose PurposeGrass Mixture Mixture

ME MJ/kg DM 12.4 12.8 + 0.4 3%

D Value % 77.3 79.7 +2.4 3%

DNDF 72.0 77.9 +5.90 8%

Feed Efficiency 1.24 1.30 +0.06 5%

Milk yield litres/cow/day 28.5 29.9 +1.4 5%

Conventional Dual Purpose LGAN Dual Purpose Benefit

Total milk production per year 8550 8970 + 420 litres

Value per cow/year €2,394 €2,512 + €118

Total annual income €239.4K €251.2K + €11,800

LGAN qualitytrials at NIAB in

Dartington

Sinclair McGill Monitor Farm, Kilkenny, is located in Listerlin, Co. Kilkenny.

It’s owned by Walter and Joey Ryan, dairy farmers, milking 40 cows on 40 acres.

Their average yield in 2015 was (5,500 litres) 1,200 gallons.

450-500kg of concentrates fed per head in 2015.

Half of the farm is sown down to Sinclair McGill, as follows:

• All land got 2 tonne of lime per acre in 2012 before being tested

• All reseeded fields received 2 tonne of lime per acre before sowing

• Fields are manured with either Leifi Grass (20-4-10) or Nitrogen (27%) depending on rotation and grass growth

The soil on Sinclair McGill Monitor Farm was last tested in 2013 and the results were as follows:

Soil Analysis Results December 2013

3

SINCLAIR MCGILL

MONITOR FARM

Sinclair McGill Monitor Farm, Kilkenny

Mixture Date Sown Method Paddock Pre-sow FertiliserSize method

Prosper, November 2015 Matrix 40, November 2015

Prosper 1st May 2015 Acheson drill 4.5ac Sprayed, Grazed off 2,000 gallons slurry & 2 bags 18/6/12

Turbo 3rd Sept 2014 Acheson drill 3ac Sprayed, Grazed off 2,000 gallons slurry & 2 bags 18/6/12

Matrix 40 30th May 2015 Acheson drill 2.5ac Sprayed, Cut & Baled 2,000 gallons slurry & 2 bags 18/6/12

Matrix 70 30th May 2015 Acheson drill 2.5ac Sprayed, Cut & Baled 2,000 gallons slurry & 2 bags 18/6/12

Castlehill 13th August 2015 Acheson drill 5ac Sprayed, Cut & Baled 2 bags 18/6/12

Mixture pH Lime Req Soil P Soil K

tonnes/ha mg/L Index mg/L Index

Prosper 6.2 1.2 3 1 97 2

Turbo 6.3 0 2 1 48 1

Matrix 40 6.8 0 4.6 2 128 3

Matrix 70 6.8 0 4.6 2 128 3

Castlehill 6.3 0 4.1 2 49 1

For updates on grass

growth and performance, visitwww.sinclairmcgill.ie

All weeds grow at the expense of your grass crop! In particularthe broad leaved weeds will make a serious attempt to smotherout the narrow leaved grass plants in their search for light,nutrients and water. Serious weed infestation is bad at any timebut is especially serious during the critical establishment phasewhen the young grass is vulnerable to competition. In particularthe control of annual meadow grass and chickweed is vital in anyintensive grassland system. The most beneficial time to controlthem is at establishment before they have a chance to competefor valuable nutrients and reduce both the yield and the quality ofthe grass.

Patches of weeds which remain uncontrolled in the early stageswill, as often as not, remain in the sward for the whole life of theley. What is more, the weeds will certainly spread over time andinhibit grass output still further.

It is probably safe to assume that a very high proportion of grassfields (perhaps 25% or more) have some level of infestation withbroad leaved weeds. In long term leys this infestation probablymeans a ground cover figure in the 7 to 15% category. Thismeans on a livestock farm with 100 acres of grass, around 15acres could be made up of broad leaved weeds – whichrepresents a staggering loss of potential yield (and herbagequality).

We must remember that all agricultural soils carry a weed seedburden and the levels involved can easily be as high as 100 millionviable seeds a hectare! On this basis, we can’t talk about gettingmore from grass without tackling this potential problem.

Weeds are, unfortunately, a visible sign of rather lax grasslandmanagement. Their presence is also indicative of many otherproblems. These include:

Soil pHIt is important to ensure that your soil has a pH of 6.5 - if it iswell below this figure then you need to consider an application oflime. Certainly, if the pH is wrong, this will mean that you are notfully exploiting the value of your fertiliser or other expensiveinputs. With the application of lime it is always better to work ona ‘little and often’ basis rather than making large applicationsseveral years apart.

DrainageCheck the drainage in your grass fields because heavyinfestations of weeds can be a symptom of poor drainage.Wet areas of ground will encourage weeds and weed growthand will lead to other difficulties such as poaching andshallow rooting in the grass.

Phosphate & PotashWe recommend that you have a soil analysis done todetermine the P and K status of your fields. If a dressing isneeded then work it into the seedbed prior to drilling.

Soil CompactionAs with most crops, grass does not like soil compaction. Soilpans mean that the grass roots cannot grow down to wherethe moisture is in the dry summer months. Regular subsoilingis an important part of good grassland management.

When embarking on a weed control programme it is vitallyimportant to apply the spray when the plants are at theirmost vulnerable stage. The stage of grass growth is alsoimportant. You may well damage the ley if sprays are appliedbefore the grass has tillered and avoid spraying in very dryconditions when the grass plants may be suffering fromstress.

It is, of course, essential to follow the instructions suppliedby the manufacturer whenever a herbicide is being used.Failure to do this may also lead to some very unwelcomehealth problems in your grass crop.

A sound back-up policy after spraying will help to ensuresuccess. As part of this programme you need to maintaintarget stocking levels so that your animals keep on top ofyour grass growth. Neither under nor over grazing isconductive to good weed control. Top the fields regularly toget rid of unpalatable grass or other species that stock haveleft and apply fertiliser as appropriate. Alternating mowingwith grazing will discourage the production of weeds whichfavour one or the other regime. If patches of weeds becomea problem then use a knapsack sprayer to take them out atthe earliest possible opportunity.

WEEDS

4

Weeds

Right: CreepingThistle

Far right: Dock

5

PESTS & DISEASES

In past decades, when the majority of livestock farmers tended toconsider grass as a ‘low-input’ crop, there was a distinct lack ofappreciation as to the true significance of attacks by pests anddiseases.

Today with the obvious importance that must be placed on grass,such an approach would be very unwise. While it may be true thatsome grass fields do not show obvious signs of attack or damage,we must remember that they may still be suffering. In such casesthe fields may well be losing production at the rate of 10-12%due to pests and a further 5-7% as a result of disease attack!

At the other end of the scale, a pest like frit fly can easilydevastate a newly sown ley in that all-important establishmentphase. In such a bad attack it may be necessary to start the re-seeding operation all over again – along with all the additionalcosts.

The information that follows is to be taken as no more than anoverview on this subject. If you need more detailed advice on anyspecific pests or diseases then it is wise to seek professional help.However, we hope that by highlighting some of the mainproblems we will at least alert more farmers to the potentiallosses from pests and diseases that they are almost certainlysuffering every year. In fact, one grassland expert recentlysuggested that grass diseases alone are currently robbing farmersof something like €314M a year! This lost output has to beconsidered as totally unacceptable by any livestock farmer whowishes to fully exploit the value of grass.

Common ‘establishment’ pests Most crops, and grass can certainly be included in this list, arevery vulnerable to pest and disease attack when they areestablishing. Pest problems tend to be more common on lowlandareas rather than on upland sites. These are the four main pestswhich need to be monitored:

Frit Fly (Oscinella frit)Many livestock farmers associate frit fly with crops of foragemaize and cereals where it certainly can be a major problem.Unfortunately frit fly is also a major threat to establishing grasswith Italian and Perennial Ryegrasses, the two main preferredtargets. It is also worth noting that Annual Meadowgrass isespecially prone to attack whereas Couch grass is considered apoor host. Timothy and Cocksfoot are said to be virtually immuneto frit fly attack.

Normally, there are three generations of frit fly over the courseof the average UK and Ireland growing season. If the summer isvery warm and dry then it is possible that a fourth generationcould be seen. The frit fly can be found in enormous numbers –populations of 5 million per hectare are by no means uncommon.

On grass fields though the egg laying may be almost continuousdue to the generations overlapping. The first generation of egglaying begins around May with young grass tillers a primary‘target’. The larvae tunnel into and feed on the base of the grasstillers. This often results in the destruction of the central shootand, ultimately, plant death. The flies emerge in July and followingmating the eggs will be laid – again grass tillers provide an idealhome. Finally a third generation of flies will emerge in August orSeptember and the larvae will feed slowly during the autumn and

winter months. They pupate in the spring and give rise to theadults which then lay their eggs in the following May.

As far as grass crops are concerned the most serious damageoften occurs in the autumn but having said this there can alsobe problems in spring sown leys. The plants which are attackedwill be stunted and there will be the typical (‘deadheart’)yellowing. The yellow centre shoot (where the larva will befound) will be surrounded by green outer leaves. Although olderplants may well survive an attack of frit fly those that are at ayoung development stage (with only a single shoot) will almostcertainly die.

Control measures:To minimise the risk of frit fly damage it is wise to allow 6weeks between destroying an old worn out grass field and theestablishment of a new ley. Note that autumn sown swards arelikely to be at the greatest risk from frit fly damage. This isbecause the population has built up to its maximum by Augustand September. Also at this time of year the newly sowngrasses grow more slowly and are therefore more prone toattack and damage. It is worth mentioning that a fine, well-consolidated seedbed will help to reduce the possible migrationof larvae from the old sward to the new. Anything thatencourages rapid plant establishment is also a bonus and this iswhere the use of our new seed treatment HEADSTART® GOLDwill be of additional benefit.

Individual areas of the UK and Ireland are particularly prone toattack by frit fly and farmers who know they are in a ‘danger-zone’ may wish to undertake routine pre-emergence insecticidetreatments. The sprays may be applied at drilling time or veryshortly after emergence. It is of course essential to observe any specified intervals between treatment and the grazing ofdairy cows.

Pests & Diseases of Grassland

Frit Fly is a major threat to establishing grass

PESTS & DISEASES

6

SlugsThe species of slug which causes the most damage in arable andgrass crops is the field slug (Deroceras reticulatum). The slugtends to be variable in colour but is often a shade of fawn andwith a length of between 12-20mm. Slugs are particularly activein wet weather and the most serious damage tends to beconfined to the autumn months and during mild periods over thewinter. Slugs become a particular problem on heavy soils –especially when the drainage in the fields is below par and the soilis high in organic matter. In a bad season the slug population canreach very high levels on badly drained fields with heavy soils.

Germinating grass and young seedlings are especially vulnerableto attack by slugs. Often there will be destruction of the seedbelow ground which will lead to a very patchy emergence. Therecan be damage to the leaves as well but if a plant is growing fastit can probably tolerate a reasonable level of grazing. A veryyoung grass plant may well be setback quite badly as a result ofserious slug grazing.

Many farmers will know from past experience which of theirfields are very prone to slug attack. Previous cropping needs tobe noted – grass crops which follow cereals can be put at ahigher risk. Some farmers will use test-baiting methods todetermine likely slug levels before they embark on a re-seedingprogramme.

Control:Every effort must be made to clear away any surface trash

from a previous arable crop. Clods of old turf also need to bebroken up – and aim to produce a fine, well-consolidatedseedbed.

If chemical control is deemed necessary then theappropriate (molluscicide) pellets can be used to preventattack. The pellets should be left for a minimum of 3days before drilling takes place. Pellets can be

broadcast after drilling but the control may not be asefficient. If an establishing crop is suffering fromheavy grazing then an application of slug pellets willgive plants time to recover.

LeatherjacketsLeatherjackets are the larvae of the crane fly (daddy-long-legs) and are particularly active in the autumn. The eggs are laidin grassy areas and the larvae should all hatch within about tendays. The larvae then feed on the grass or any decayingvegetable matter they can find in the soil. The feedingincreases to a voracious level in the spring as they begin togrow and develop. When the leatherjackets are fully-growntheir length will be about 5cm, the colour will be grey/brownand they have no legs. There is no obvious head. Leatherjacketscan be a particular problem in later-sown grass crops. In fact ithas been calculated that over 750,000 hectares of establishedgrass are at serious risk from leatherjackets.

The grass seeds can be destroyed in a similar manner to thatseen in slug attacks. However, the leatherjackets will often bitethe stems of the grass at, or just below, the soil surface. Lookout for frayed edges on the cut ends of the plants. If yousearch carefully you will often find the leatherjackets near tothe damaged plants. Autumn sown grass crops will typicallyshow signs of damage by early April (although keep a watchfuleye out for any signs of damage during November andDecember). Leys drilled in the spring can exhibit damagesymptoms from sowing onwards. If there is a heavy attack youwill find bare patches of soil where the grass has beencompletely destroyed – these patches then supportundesirable weed grasses or weeds. It is worth noting thatgrass fields on the wetter soils are likely to suffer proportionallymore damage from leatherjackets.

In established grassland, the economic threshold for this pest is1 million per hectare, a figure which needs to be halved fornewly re-seeded grass leys. At the threshold population youcan expect to lose over 2.25 tonnes of DM per ha.

Control:When undertaking a re-seeding programme it is as well tomonitor this pest for threshold levels. If it looks like theproblem could be serious then a suitable chemical controlprogramme is going to be a wise move.

Common slug(left) and a

leatherjacket;larva of the

crane fly (right)

7

PESTS & DISEASES

WirewormsGrassland is the natural habitat for wireworms and verysignificant numbers of this pest will often be found in permanentpasture. Not surprisingly when old pastures are taken out thenewly seeded grass will be especially vulnerable to attack by thispest (Agriotes spp.). The damage may become more severe in thesecond or third year of the new ley’s life.

The wireworms will chew the base of the grass plants – typicallyjust below ground level – and the plants will turn yellow and showsigns of wilting. The symptoms can sometimes be confused withthe damage seen in grass which has been attacked by frit fly.However, the very ‘ragged’ nature of the damage along with thepresence of the wireworms themselves will confirm the initialdiagnosis. Attacks by wireworm are often more serious when thegrass crop is already under pressure from another problem –such as soil acidity or poor soil conditions and fluffy seedbeds.

Control measures:A good seedbed will help your grass crop get off to a good startand will help the plants to withstand a minor attack. If the soil hasbeen sampled and there is the risk of a serious attack thenconsider an appropriate insecticide which will need to be appliedin a high volume spray before drilling. A risk assessment can alsobe made which is based on previous experience on the farm orlocal conditions in a specific year.

Farmers may sometimes overlook the fact that a wellestablished ley can still be subject to attack by pests. Thedamage they can cause can be significant – it may not just bethe development of obvious patches in the field, there can bea decline in the actual population of the desirable grasses.

Frit FlyThis pest can cause damage to well established swards whichmay lead to a reduction in the proportion of ryegrass in thesward and may also reduce the persistency of the field. If yoususpect frit fly damage the best approach is to dissect sometillers from those plants which are looking more yellow – ifthe larvae are present then your initial diagnosis is obviouslycorrect. In terms of control, the best form of defence is toensure that your fields are well drained and to make sure thatthe grass is receiving the optimum amount of nitrogen. Bymaintaining the overall vigour of the grass the field should beable to withstand all but a massive influx of this pest.Populations tend to be lower where grass is cut rather thangrazed.

Grass AphidsThere are several species of aphid that may be found onestablished grass but only one species is usually responsiblefor any damage and this may be prevalent after a mild, openwinter. If an established ley is invaded by a large number ofaphids then the grass may turn brown and have a ‘scorched’appearance. If you feel that there is a significant aphidpopulation then it might be worth considering the use of anaphicide – if in any doubt consult one of the major chemicalsuppliers.

LeatherjacketsDamage by this pest may result in very clearly defined

patches in your grass. There may be evidence of ‘clod’

pulling by livestock or the presence of straw-like areas

of grass. In general a good ‘defence’ is the best form of

attack – keep your grass supplied with the optimum

levels of nitrogen so as to offset any possible losses. In

serious cases it may be worth seeking advice on the

value of a suitable insecticide.

ChafersThe grubs of several species of chafer beetle may

cause damage to grass in various parts of the UK and

Ireland. The garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola) is

likely to be the most serious. The adult is around 8-

9mm long with a metallic green head and thorax and

reddish-brown wing cases. The grubs are white and

measure about 18-20mm when fully grown. Due to

the nature of the life cycle, affected fields tend to be

re-infested each summer. The feeding action by the

grubs (they sever the roots) will produce patches of

poorly grown grass and these may turn very brown in

dry weather. The damage is most likely to be seen in

September and October. There may well be a lot of

bird activity on the pasture – as they look for the grubs

to eat. If you are concerned that you may have a very

high population of chafers you would be advised to

contact a suitable agrochemical company for further

advice.

Pest Attacks in Well Established Grass

Wireworm

PESTS & DISEASES

8

Common Establishment Diseases

Pre-Emergence Damping-Off

Overwintering DiseasesAlthough winterkill is recognised as a key problem in northernareas of the UK and Ireland it can lead to problems elsewhere inthe UK. Several factors contribute to the disease but majorpathological causes of death result from attack by Fusariumculmorum and Fusarium nivale (snow mould) and a number ofother viruses. The damage is most severe when sudden cold spellsfollow periods of milder weather.

Grass that has been attacked by snow mould will exhibit patchesof yellow which later turns a whitish-grey. This will be mostnoticeable in February and March. Pinkish white mycelium canoften be seen within the matted turf after attacks by Fusariumnivale.

It is important to ensure that swards do not enter the winter in along, rank state. In northern areas avoid sowing mixtures whichcontain a large proportion of less winter hardy varieties.

Crown RustCrown Rust is now recognised as one of the most serious leafdiseases of grass capable of devastating pastures. Once thedisease takes a hold there can be a noticeable reduction in tilleringand root growth and the foliage will turn yellow. Palatability canbe badly affected with stock refusing to eat a heavily infectedpasture. The re-growth and response to nitrogen can also be hitby crown rust. Once confined to the south and west, the diseaseseems to be steadily moving northwards; possibly as a result ofglobal warming.

The disease is often seen in late summer and during the autumnand its spread is encouraged by warm, dry days and cool moistnights. Badly infected fields will take on a very yellow appearance.If you look carefully you should see the overwintering spores onthe leaves – these are shiny and black and will appear on bothsides of the leaves from mid-autumn onwards.

One of the best methods of control is frequent grazing. If apasture has already been attacked and stock are rejecting thecrop then the best approach is to top the field and remove theinfected herbage. Fertiliser should then be applied to encouragenew growth – but ensure that the field is then grazed regularly(ideally at intervals not exceeding three weeks).

There is a degree of varietal resistance and this should beexploited in areas where the disease is known to be a regularproblem.

Net BlotchThis is probably the most damaging fungal disease of ryegrassesin this country. It can be found throughout the year in a verylarge number of fields and can lead to some losses indigestibility. The symptoms of net blotch are sometimesconfused with nitrogen deficiency because there is a superficialsimilarity.

The form of defence is to ensure that grass is grazed regularlyso that it does not become long and rank.

Brown BlightNot surprisingly this disease may sometimes be confused withnet blotch, although the former does not usually cause as muchdamage to the grass. If crops have been badly infected it isworth cutting them to prevent further leaf damage.

Leaf ScaldAlso called ‘spring burn’ this disease (caused by two mainspecies of Rhynchosporium) can be especially prevalent inItalian ryegrasses and it can lead to a loss of quality and yield. Inaddition palatability may also be affected. The irregular ‘scald-like’ blotches are commonly found on the under surface of theleaves and these may also show signs of browning of the edges(which may be confused with windburn). The greatest damagemay well have occurred before the ley has been given its firstcut of the season. There is evidence of some varietal resistance.

Drechslera (Leaf Spot)Another serious disease of grass that is increasing rapidly isDrechslera. In the autumn of 2013 there were reports of thisdisease from as far south-west as Cornwall and as far north asScotland. Recent NIAB TAG trials recorded more than 40% ofthe leaf area of some swards were affected by it.

The disease is encouraged by wet and cloudy weather and ismost prevalent in the autumn but unlike many other diseases itcan be active well into the winter months, resulting in adecrease in spring silage yields of as much as 18%.

Drechslera attacks the leaves of the grass plant starting assmall speckles which later develop in to brown/black lesions,often with a yellow halo. The leaf eventually dies reducing grassyield and feed quality. Cattle and sheep will reject infectedgrass which in the worst cases can devastate whole pastures,turning them black. Like Crown Rust, there is a degree of

Disease attacks in established grass

Pre-emergence damping-off can lead to quite a high number ofseeds failing to produce a viable plant. The soil borne fungi (usuallyPythium and Fusarium species) only have a relatively short timespan in which to make an attack. Such attacks will be moresuccessful if the soil conditions are ‘suitable’ i.e. cold and wet at orsoon after the seed has been sown. However, there can still beattacks in warm weather when the soil conditions are very dry!

Seeds which fail to produce a seedling will show distinct signs ofrotting after the seed coat has been broken. To increase theproportion of seeds which produce a viable seedling it is importantto ensure that careful attention is paid to the preparation of theseedbed and sowing depth. In addition proven seed treatmentsrepresent a major breakthrough – See page 10 for moreinformation on our unique seed treatment HEADSTART® GOLD.

9

PESTS & DISEASES

varietal resistance to Drechslera. The use of resistant varietiesor complex multi-gene mixtures such as Castlehill® will stop, orat least slow down the progress of the disease. Diploidryegrasses are more prone to the disease than tetraploids.

Where the disease has taken hold in established pastures, it isbest to remove infected material by light grazing (if notrejected by stock) or failing that, topping, which will inhibit thespread of the disease and reduce the chances of survival intothe winter.

In the worst cases, advice should be sought from your cropprotection specialist and the grass should be sprayed with afungicide.

MildewMildew (Erysiphe graminis) may be seen in lush, dense crops ofryegrass in the spring and early summer. Incidence of thedisease can certainly lead to a loss of both yield and quality inItalian and Perennial ryegrasses. Excessive soil nitrogen, shadeand high humidity will all favour the development and spread ofmildew. Crops earmarked for conservation are especially at risk.

To check for mildew look for oval fluffy pustules on the leaves– these will mainly be seen on the upper side. There will bewhitish coloured mycelium in the pustules and over time theaffected leaves will turn yellow and die.

If mildew has been a problem in the past take a closer look atvarietal resistance as a means of reducing the incidence of thisdisease.

Bacterial WiltThis was first recognised as a disease of grasses back in themid-1970s and has been closely linked to Italian ryegrassvarieties. The symptoms are most noticeable on the floweringtillers where a yellow/orange stripe may be observed on theflag leaf. The development of the disease may lead to leaveswilting and turning a light straw colour. Severe cases are fairlyrare.

ErgotThis is caused by a fungus (Claviceps purpurea) and can befound throughout the UK but more especially in wetter areas.The main interest with this disease lies in the fungal structureswhich appear. These 'ergots' (which develop in the flowers ofthe grass) can cause poisoning in livestock. These ergots vary in

length (from 0 .25 - 2.00cm) and are hard with a white orpurplish centre.

Grass crops which are grazed or cut before flowering shouldhave no ergots present. If you are re-seeding fields which areknown to carry infestations of ergot then ensure that they areploughed well (so as to bury the ergots to a depth of at least10cm and thereby prevent them from germinating).

Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV)BYDV is spread by aphids and individual fields can have a veryhigh level of infection (up to 85% or more). It may lead to thedwarfing of individual plants and the grasses which areinfected will invariably show some yellowing or reddening ofthe leaves. The best time to make a diagnosis is in May andJune but the symptoms can be readily confused with theresults of nutritional and environmental stress factors.

Ryegrass Mosaic Virus (RMV)This is spread by mites and is most prevalent on theryegrasses, particularly the Italians. The main symptoms arepale green streaks on the upper surfaces of leaves. As theplants get older these streaks may be yellow or brown. Bothplant height and tillering may be reduced. RMV can spreadvery rapidly within a field and lead to losses of up to 30%.Digestibility may also be reduced. There is some tolerance toRMV in individual grass varieties.

SummaryIt is worth stressing that good grassland management isone of the major weapons that farmers have at theirdisposal when fighting diseases. By tight grazing, andwhere appropriate, regular sward topping you willpromote conditions that are unsuited to the majority ofgrass diseases. In addition, and perhaps even moreimportantly, regular re-seeding with good qualitymixtures will be a major benefit. This is because itintroduces newer varieties (which will have better diseasetolerance) and young, vigorous grass plants will benaturally more resistant to infection.

Post-Emergence Damping-Off

The two soil borne species mentioned previously (Pythium andFusarium) along with several other species, notablyRhizoctonia solani, Cylindrocarpon radicola and the seed-borneDreschslera, can cause this problem. The typical symptomsinclude the rotting of seedlings at their stem base and damageto their roots. This damage is normally seen after theemergence of the second or third leaf and it may be more

prevalent when the soil is very dry and the weather warm.

Paying careful attention to the quality of the seedbed and

making sure that the grass is given a good start with adequate

fertiliser will all help to reduce the risk of damage. Our novel

seed treatment, HEADSTART® GOLD will prove very valuable

- see page 10 for more information.

HEADSTART®GOLD

10

Biostimulants● Promotes the supply of nutrients

● Ensures efficient use of nutrients

● Prevents deficiency of traceelements

Enzyme Activity● Stimulates growth of

roots/shoots

● A catalyst for photosynthesis

Molybdenum (Mo)● Essential trace element

for initial growth

● Required for enzymes that are involved with protein formation

Copper (Cu)● Important trace

element for re-growth

● Part of enzymes inphotosynthesis/metabolism

● Stimulates production of lignin rigid cell walls

Phosphorus (P)● Essential for

photosynthesis andsynthesis oils, sugars,starches and enzymes

● Ensures rapid rooting

● Enhances stressresistance

Sulphur (S)● Basic building block for

production of proteins, hormones & vitamins

● Promotes cell division & metabolism

● Leads to faster germination

Seaweed Extract withHigh Cytokinin Content

HEADSTART® GOLDHEADSTART® was originally developed in response to pleas by groundsmen to givethem something that would speed up the renovation of winter sports pitches in theshort “window” between the end of one season and the resumption of play andtraining. HEADSTART® proved to be so successful that it is now used by about60% of football clubs in the English Premiership as well as rugby clubs and famouspitches throughout Europe. Growers of cultivated turf also took to it finding it notonly improved cover, but rooting as well, enabling both faster establishment andearlier harvesting of the turf.

We recognised that the many benefits of HEADSTART® translated to forage grassas well and in difficult seasons farmers have often found that the seed applied withHEADSTART® established well, when untreated seed has struggled.

The introduction of HEADSTART® GOLD retains all the advantages of the originalformulation but adds a scientifically balanced package of minerals and traceelements essential for the successful establishment of seedlings; further insurancethat your grass seed gets off to a flying start.

11

MIXTURESELECTION

CHART

Mixture Selection Chart

Short Term 1-4 years Predominantly Grazing Dual Purpose Predominantly Cutting

COLOSSAL® SILAGE Page 12

COLOSSAL® RED Page 12

ADMIRAL’S CHOICE Page 12

POLYCROP® Page 12

Medium Term 4-8 years Predominantly Grazing Dual Purpose Predominantly Cutting

SCOTSWARD®

PROSPER® Page 13

TURBO® Page 14

ADVANCE Page 14

EXTRA LAMB Page 15

Matrix Medium Term 4-8 years Predominantly Grazing Dual Purpose Predominantly Cutting

MATRIX Enhanced® Ryegrass & Timothy Page 16

MATRIX 40 Enhanced® Ryegrass Page 17

MATRIX 70 Enhanced® Ryegrass Page 17

Long Term 8-12 years Predominantly Grazing Dual Purpose Predominantly Cutting

CASTLEHILL® Page 18

LAMBHILL Page 18

CASTLEPARK Page 19

EMERALD HILL Page 19

Pasture Renovation Mixtures

Pasture Renovation Short Term Mixture Page 20

Pasture Renovation Long Term Mixture Page 21

Pasture Renovation Long Term Mixture (without clover) Page 21

ADMIRAL’S CHOICEMainly Cutting

● Formulated to produce high yields of protein rich silage● Slightly later than Colossal® Red● High sugars to complement the protein in the clover● Late tetraploid perennial ryegrass is more

persistent than hybrid ryegrass matchingthe better persistence of some of thenewer red clover varieties such as Maro

● Red Admiral blend contains both early andlater flowering red clovers; diploid andlarger leafed tetraploid varieties for moreeven yields over 3 or more cuts and andbetter persistency

Suggested seed rate: 10-12 kg/acre (23-30 kg/ha)Guide cutting height: 10 cm (4 inches)

SHORT TERM

● Protein rich 3 year ley

● A powerful combination of high yielding tetraploid hybridryegrasses and our RED ADMIRAL redclover blend

● In a 3 year farm scale trial in Devon, RedAdmiral blend gave consistently higheryields over all cuts in all 3 years thansingle varieties

● Predominantly a cutting mixture but itcan also be grazed by lambs and ewes inlate summer

Suggested seed rate: 10-12 kg/acre (23-30 kg/ha)Guide cutting height: 10 cm (4 inches)

COLOSSAL® REDMainly Cutting

COLOSSAL® SILAGE Mainly Cutting

● Highly digestible tetraploids plus the very latest top yieldingdiploid Italian ryegrasses give you MORE SILAGE in yourclamp and also MORE MILK from your silage

● Close ‘D’ value cutting dates make this avery easy mixture to manage

● The high sugars and high fibre stimulaterumen activity and maximise conversionto milk

● COLOSSAL SILAGE outyields perennialryegrass based leys in the autumn too

● Includes the new generation of Italianryegrass varieties with improveddigestibility

Suggested seed rate: 10-12kg/acre (23-30 kg/ha)Guide cutting height: 10 cm (4 inches)

12

ITALIANRYEGRASS

HYBRIDRYEGRASS(TET)

ITALIANRYEGRASS(TET)

66%

17%

17%HYBRIDRYEGRASS(TET)

RED CLOVERBLEND70% 30%

RED CLOVERBLEND

LATE PERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

70% 30%

This mixture istreated with



POLYCROP®Dual Purpose

● High sugar mixture● High tetraploid content (77%) makes Polycrop® very

palatable and extremely productive● Expect improved liveweight gain in beef and lambs● Multiple cutting potential with excellent aftermath grazing● True dual purpose mixture with a productive lifespan of at

least 3 years● Includes Gandalf, a sugar rich diploid● Includes late tetraploid ryegrasses to

enhance grazing potential● Including Trintella with improved digestibility

for better conversion to meat or milk● Also available with white cloverSuggested seed rate: 13-18 kg per acre(33-45 kg/ha)Guide to first cut: 20th May (70D) 26-31st May (67D)Guide cutting height: 10 cm (4 inches)

LATEPERENNIALRYEGRASS

HYBRIDRYEGRASS(TET)

47%

MID SEASONPERENNIALRYEGRASS

13%

MID SEASONPERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

10%

10%


20%


13

MEDIUM TERM

SCOTSWARD® Mainly Cutting with quality grazing

Medium to long term cutting mixture

● A later heading mixture capable of producing high ME silage

● Particularly well adapted to the harsher climate of Scotland,Ireland & Northern Ireland

● Two or more cuts of high quality silage plus aftermathgrazing

● Timothy inclusion enables Scotsward to stand up to themower

● White Clover contributes to quality aftermath grazing

Suggested seed rate: 13-16 kg/acre (32-40 kg/ha)

Guide cutting height: 7.5cm (3 inches)

TIMOTHY

CLOVERPLUSWHITECLOVERBLEND


15.5%


26.5%

8%


16%


29%

5%


PROSPERDual Purpose

One/two cuts of highly digestible silage plus qualitygrazing● Very palatable mixture for high ‘DMD’ value silage and

grazing

● Every extra point in ‘DMD’ value can give a 5% increase inmeat or milk production or give equivalent savings inbought-in feed

● Two cut of top quality silage plus grazing

● The perfect mixture for beef and dairyunits

● Production is concentrated onintermediate heading varieties to produce two heavy silage cuts

● Now accredited LGAN

Suggested seed rate: 14-16 kgs/acre (35-40 kg/ha)

Guide cutting height: 4 inches (10cm)



25%


17%


17%


36%

CLOVERPLUSWHITECLOVERBLEND

5%

William Delaney, Co. Laois with Kevin Cunningham, Sinclair McGill.

William Delaney is a dairy farmer milking 85 cows on a grazing platform of 165 acres.He has been using Sinclair McGill for 6 years now, sowing down Castlehill, Scotsward and Turboover this period of time. William believes that for farmers, choosing the right grass based on itsnutritional content is essential.

“Scotswardmakes lovely

silage”

ADVANCE Mainly Grazing

● Developed especially for Ireland

● LGAN accredited mixture

● High tetraploid content with highest ground cover scores on RL

● All late mixture with 4 day heading date spread

● Highly palatable mixture with High DMD

MEDIUM TERM

14

WHITECLOVERBLEND

5%


40%LATE PERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

55%

TURBO® Mainly Grazing

Medium to long term intensive grazing mixture formaximum production of milk or meat

● New formulation using to optimise production of milkand meat

● For intensive grazing with one cut of high quality silage

● Very rapid re-growth

● Suitable for both paddock grazingsystems and set stocking

● High tetraploid content can produce anextra two litres of milk per day

● Later heading for stem free grazing

● Optimise the cheapest source of feed onyour farm – graze Turbo!




6%


35%


7%


40%

TWEEDWHITECLOVERBLEND

5%MATRIXENHANCED®RYEGRASS

7%

Barry Gleeson and Brendan McGarry with Kevin Cunningham, Sinclair McGill.

Brendan McGarry is a dairy farmer, milking 60 cows on 150 acres in Banagher, Co. Offaly.He has been seeding Turbo from Sinclair McGill for the past 3 years and operates a grazingturn-around of approximately 14 days. He believes Turbo recovers quickly and has agrowth rate well ahead of competitors.

“Turbo has aSuper Growth

Rate”

Unique

Mixture

15

MEDIUM TERM

EXTRA LAMB Mainly Grazing

Popular medium term mixture for economic lambproduction● This mixture is very popular with farmers producing lambs on

intensive systems but on a lower cost production basis

● It includes CHEVIOT White Clover Blend which has beenformulated especially for sheep grazing and is rich innutrients necessary to achieve fast liveweight gains

● Very dense sward for intensive close grazing

Suggested seed rate: 13-16 kgs/acre (32-40 kg/ha)

TIMOTHY10%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

7%


40%

INTERMEDIATEPERENNIALRYEGRASS

13%INTERMEDIATEPERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

30%


John Lynch, Kellihers Feed & Agri with John O’Connor, Beaufort, Co Kerry.

John is a contractor and farmer, working in Beaufort, Killarney. He has been using Sinclair McGillfor his clients’ for 6 years now. He uses Castlehill for silage and Extra Lamb for sheep grazing.John likes to use Sinclair McGill grass because it is persistent and provides long term grass.

“Very Happywith It”

MATRIX ENHANCED® RYEGRASSMIXTURE WITH TIMOTHY

● Early to grow in the spring - both Matrix and Timothy willgrow at lower temperatures than perennial ryegrass thusmaking a greater contribution to early turn-out

● This mixture was very high yielding in our trials

● The Timothy also makes this mixture more winter hardy

MATRIX

16

Matrix was developed by Cropmark® in New Zealandand it is a complex inter-generic hybrid consisting ofabout 80% diploid pasture Perennial Ryegrass and20% Meadow Fescue.

Matrix was bred as a high quality grazing grass withan extended grazing season and very rapid regrowth.This makes it especially suited to paddockmanagement or rotational grazing systems, but it canalso be used for set stocking.

● Grows at lower temperatures than ryegrass givingup to 3 weeks extra growth in the spring!

● Matrix also grows much later in the autumn thanryegrass, giving up to another 3 weeks extragrazing!

● Very rapid regrowth particularly when defoliated atthe 3 leaves per tiller stage

● Very dense fine leaved sward resists poaching andtreading

● Complex genetic make-up enhances forage qualityand digestibility. For best results graze when thereare 3 true leaves per tiller

Benefits of Matrix Enhanced®Ryegrass?

What is Matrix For?

What is Matrix Enhanced®Ryegrass?



20%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

10%

MATRIXENHANCED®RYEGRASS

40% TIMOTHY15%

Technical Tip

from the Experts:

Increase number of grazing’sper paddock

= increase tonnes perhectare of grass grown

17

MATRIX

● Only recommended for the warmer parts of Ireland unlessoverseeding an existing pasture

● For overseeding we recommend a minimum rate of 8 kilos peracre

● Enables farmers in mild winter areas to exploit the value of thelong season production of Matrix to the full

MATRIX 70 ENHANCED®

RYEGRASS MIXTURE

MATRIX 40 ENHANCED®

RYEGRASS MIXTURE

● Our most popular Matrix Enhanced® Ryegrass mixture

● Suitable for most areas in Ireland

● Best suited to intensive grazing

● Inclusion of conventional grasses help protect the Matrix fromwinter damage

● High (10%) White Clover content helps tofeed the grass with clover nitrogen andincreases protein and mineral content ofthe sward


40%


15%


35%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

10%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

10%



20%

Sowing Rate● We recommend a sowing rate of 12.5 kilos/acre

but it can be sown at higher seeding rates. The packsize is 25 kilos.

Sowing Time● Treat as you would any conventional grass/clover

mixture. Depending on where you are located, theclover may not germinate if sown too late in theautumn when soil temperatures are falling. Spring tomid-August is ideal.

Sowing Method● Treat as any grass mixture, drill or broadcast into a

fine, firm seed bed and roll in afterwards. If drilling,we recommend that Matrix Enhanced® RyegrassMixtures are cross drilled.

Grazing Management● Best suited in continuous grazing situations and not

cutting systems. A paddock system works best forMatrix grazing as it has a rapid regrowth.

● Best grazed at 3 true leaf, which normally occursbetween day 16-20 post grazing.

● Maximise yield from Matrix by increasing the numberof grazings throughout the year. Pre-grazing cover isnormally 1,200-1,400 kg/DM/ha.

● Minimise waste by grazing Matrix when ready ratherthan when it fits into the rotation. As Matrix getsbeyond the 3 leaf stage, quality will drop and regrowthwill be slower.

Matrix is a complex inter-generic hybrid and so needsto be grazed harder or cut low late into the autumn.This is to avoid loss of yield from winter kill over theclosed period.

Matrix Enhanced® RyegrassMixtures Management Guidelines

LAMBHILLMainly Grazing

● Formulated for harsh environments and marginal land

● Suitable for upland reseeds and bogs

● Excellent long term sheep grazing mixture

● Lambhill is also perfectly suited to extensive farmingsystems and all classes of livestock

● Despite the name, Lambhill is also suitable for both beefcattle and dairy cows!


LONG TERM

CASTLEHILL® Dual Purpose

Castlehill is the Long Term Ley withRock Solid Performance

● The supreme permanent pasture - suitable for grazing andcutting

● Extremely versatile. Suited to most soil types and climatic conditions

● Extremely palatable for all classes of livestock

● Hardy and persistent to repay your investment with interest!

● Excellent white clover blend (Tweed) which can increaseanimal production by up to 40%

● Invest in Castlehill for the ultimate in long term productivity


18



27%

TIMOTHY8%TWEEDWHITECLOVERBLEND

5%


24%MID SEASONPERENNIALRYEGRASS

12%



EARLYPERENNIALRYEGRASS

MEADOWFESCUE

TIMOTHY

CREEPINGREDFESCUE

CHEVIOTWHITECLOVERBLEND

ALSIKE CLOVER

EARLYPERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)


21%

INTERMEDIATEPERENNIALRYEGRASS (TET)

29%

8% 5%

8% 13%

7.5%

5.5%

3%

BEST

SELLER

Liam O’Donnell, Star Fuels and Farm Supplies, Ger and DJ Horan with Kevin Cunningham, Sinclair McGill.

Ger and Patricia Horan are dairy and beef farmers located in Cahir, Co. Tipperary. Ger and Patricia havebeen sowing Sinclair McGill for 16 years now, since 1999. They have sown Castlehill over that time andcontinue using it for its persistency and quick turnaround of growth.

“Consistencyand quick

turnaround”

19

LONG TERM

+75%

Late

Heading

● Developed especially for Ireland

● A later heading mixture for stem free production for much ofthe season

● Very dense sward for maximum resistance to poaching andtreading

● Easy to manage and reliable mixture

● Suits both extensive and intensive livestock systems


EMERALD HILLMainly Grazing

CASTLEPARKDual Purpose

● Dual purpose mixture for drought prone areas

● Excellent early bite followed by reliable productionthroughout the season

● Includes TWEED White Clover blend to fix ‘free’ nitrogen andprovide nutritional benefits to stock

● Now includes Tall Fescue which is widely used in northernEurope for its tolerance to drought and heat

N.B: Castlepark should be grazed hard toprevent Cocksfoot from forming clumps

Suggested seed rate: 13-18 kg/acre (33-45 kg/ha)Guide cutting height: 10cm (4 inches)

TALL FESCUE

COCKSFOOT


7.5%


27%

MEADOWFESCUE5%

8.5%


10%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

7%

TIMOTHY10%

16%

EARLYPERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

9%MID SEASONPERENNIALRYEGRASS

12%


28%


7%


48%

TWEEDWHITECLOVERBLEND

5%



Peter and Damien Walsh with Michael Sweeney, Slaney Agri Supplies.

Peter and Damian Walsh are beef farmers, located in Blackwater, Co. Wexford. They believethat the quality of silage is very important for them. They’ve sown Sinclair McGill for 10 yearsnow, using CastlePark and Castlehill.

“The Quality ofour silage is very

important”

PASTURE RENOVATIONShort Term

● This mixture will really “pep up” yourpasture and give it a new lease of life

● Best cut for silage or hay but will also giveuseful aftermath grazing

● Designed to perform for 12-18 monthsafter sowing

PASTURERENOVATION

20


HYBRIDRYEGRASS(TET)

ITALIANRYEGRASS18.75%

50%

ITALIANRYEGRASS(TET)

31.25%

If you are planning a pasture renovationprogramme then you need to ensure that you havea copy of this very informative technical guide.

It provides information on a number of aspectsincluding:

● Advice on assessing your own pastures

● The correct preparatory work

● Advice on the correct mixture to use

● The types of drill available and the techniquesinvolved

● Post drilling management

You can obtain a hard copy of this guide bytelephoning us (on 051 897 060) or e-mail [email protected] to get a PDF copy.

Pasture Renovation Guide

21

PASTURERENOVATION

● This mixture is the same as the above butexcludes clover on the assumption thatthere is sufficient clover in the existingsward

PASTURE RENOVATIONLong Term (without clover)

PASTURE RENOVATIONLong Term

● A longer term solution to pasturerenovation

● White Clover will fix free nitrogen to feedyour ley and provide nutritional benefitsto your livestock

● All the grasses are larger seededtetraploids which compete better in theexisting swards and improve both yieldsand forage quality


43%MID SEASONPERENNIALRYEGRASS(TET)

50%

WHITECLOVERBLEND

7%


50%


50%



Clover Blend TechnologySinclair McGill pioneered the development of clover blends inthe 1980s in association with IBERS (Institute of Biological,Environmental and Rural Sciences). Certain principles wereestablished that are still valid today but the varieties we nowuse are far superior.

White Clover BlendsCloverPlus®This blend is for inclusion in ley mixtures designed for beefand dairy systems. It includes varieties with a range of leafsizes that can adapt to grazing with cattle and cutting forsilage.

Cheviot®A specialist blend primarily made up of very small leavedvarieties with excellent persistence to stand up to the rigoursof intensive and close grazing by sheep. As sheep areselective grazers it also includes some clover with largeleaves which act as a “decoy” during the establishment phase.

Tweed®A highly adaptable and persistent blend, for inclusion in longterm mixtures. The range of leaf sizes enables Tweed toadapt to suit all classes of livestock and most managementsystems.

CloverPlus® Pelleted White Clover Blend● Ideal for introducing clover into existing grass swards.

● Pellet increases the size and weight of the seed enablingeasier drill adjustment and more accurate distribution.

● Treated with HEADSTART® GOLD a biological treatmentproven to speed up germination and improveestablishment.

● Pellet improves seed flow for more even distributionwhen broadcast.

● Suitable for broadcasting, harrows with a seed box andslot seeding.

A field of Colossal®Red which has beenslot seeded verysuccessfully.

ORGANIC GRASS & CLOVER

MIXTURES

22

This mixture range contains the requisite amount of organicallyproduced seed to satisfy the demands of the organiccertification authorities. Further details are available on request.

Mixture 1SHORT TERM FERTILITY BUILDER

For farmers converting to organic or seeking a fertility buildingmixture which can also provide high protein hay or silage.Contains Red Clover, Italian Ryegrass and tetraploid HybridRyegrass. Similar to Colossal® Red, (see page 12).

Mixture 2GRAZING MIXTURE

This grazing mixture differs from conventional mixtures in that ithas a high white clover content and a more open sward whichenables the clover to thrive. The mixture also contains mid andlate season perennials - including some very palatabletetraploids.

Mixture 3CUTTING MIXTURE

Intensive silage regimes tend to put high pressure on thelongevity and performance of a mixture and thus the fertiliserrequirement is particulary high. Our organic cutting mixturecontains a high proportion of a clover blend to ensure optimumfixation of atmospheric nitrogen so the ley does not prematurely“run out of steam”. The optimum blend of several mid and lateseason perennials includes a number of high performancetetraploids.

Mixture 4 DUAL PURPOSE MIXTURE

Similar to Progress® (see page 15), but with a higher content ofwhite clover. Very good early bite and the ability to adapt todifferent management conditions and diverse livestockenterprises.

Mixture 5LONG TERM, LOW INPUT MIXTURE

A traditional mixture that harks back to the days when alllivestock farms were organic. It includes Meadow Fescue andTimothy, both of which have the potential to outyield perennialryegrass in lower fertility conditions. The inclusion of a highproportion of white clover seed enables the ley to rapidly achievemaximum clover levels for optimum fixation of atmosphericnitrogen.

Organic Grass & Clover Mixtures

This is the organic version of our best selling long termmixture. It differs from the conventional version inhaving a higher white clover content and contains therequisite organic seed content to conform to theregulations in 2015/16.

Castlehill® Organic Mixture

23

ORGANIC FORAGE CROPS

We can offer the following range of crops to produce high qualityfeed for a range of animals and systems.

Stubble Turnip DynamoAn excellent variety for finishing lambs from November toJanuary. Dynamo is very leafy (good protein content) and alsohas good root anchorage that helps reduce grazing wastage. Toadd extra winter hardiness and to extend the period of useDynamo can be mixed with forage rape.

Forage Pea MagnusForage peas deliver a high crude protein feed which is ready forharvest 12-14 weeks from sowing. Magnus is a semi-leaflesstype which prevents the crop lodging and reduces soilcontamination. Magnus is an excellent break crop between grassleys and will also fix an amount of ‘free’ nitrogen.

Lucerne This underrated crop is extremely productive, rich in protein andexhibits good resistance to drought. It begs the question why is itnot more widely grown? Lucerne fits well into organic farmingsystems and our variety is of organic provenance.

Swede LomondIdeal for finishing lambs post Christmas period. Lomond has toprated yields and a disease package ideally suited for growingorganically.

Organic Forage Crops

This very comprehensive bookletfeatures a wealth of informationabout the various crops we canoffer for those farmers with organicsystems.

It covers all aspects of CLOVERSand FORAGE CROPS such asstubble turnips, kale, swedes,forage peas, maize and lucerne. Inaddition the booklet highlights thevalue of green manure crops and anumber of options are featured -including vetch, forage rye,buckwheat and red clover.

There is also information onnematode reducing mixtures along with tables showingsowing rates and the yields you can expect from variouscrops.

If you would like a copy of this valuable booklet please telephone us on 051 897 060 or [email protected] and ask for a PDF copy.

Crops for Organic Farming Systems

Lucerne is notonly high inprotein but isvery resistant todrought.

KEY VARIETIES IN

SINCLAIR MCGILL

MIXTURES

Key Grass and Clover Varieties for IrelandDAFM DARD SAC RLIreland Northern Scotland England

Ireland & Wales

Early Perennial Ryegrass (diploid)

MoyolaHigh yields for both cutting and R Bold 1 Ggrazing

KimberHigh yields with good seasonal - Plain 1 Gdistribution

Early Perennial Ryegrass (tetraploid)

AnacondaHigh quality first cut yields - - 1 Scombined with excellent grazing in early spring and autumn

Intermediate Perennial Ryegrass (diploid)

SolomonGood yields combined with high R Bold 1 G WSC and DNDF

PremiumExcellent ground cover and 2013 - 1 Greliable performance under cutting and grazing.

Copeland A productive, intermediate - Bold 1 Gperennial ryegrass bred by AFBIin Northern Ireland.

ContrastVery high yields for cutting and - - 1 PSgrazing.

Intermediate Perennial Ryegrass (tetraploid)

TrendGood total yields with very good 2015 - - -spring growth.

DunluceHigh yields and good forage R Bold 1 Gquality.

TrintellaExcellent forage quality and - Bold 2 Spalatability.

EurostarHigh yields of best forage quality. - Bold 1 G

Pensel High yields of good quality, - - 1 (P) PScombined with top disease resistance.

NEW

NEW

NEW

DAFM DARD SAC RLIreland Northern Scotland England

Ireland & Wales

Late Heading Perennial Ryegrass (diploid)

DenverGood yields combine with 2014 Plain 1 -excellent seasonal distribution.

MalamboGood annual yields and dense 2014 - - -sward for stock carrying capacity.

Tyrella Late-heading variety with R Plain 1 Sexcellent grazing yields.

PortstewartBenchmark variety still 2014 - 2 -out-performing many newcomers!

CancanDense and high yielding with 2013 - 2 Ggood animal nutrition.

DrumboGood digestible yields. R Bold 1 G

Late Heading Perennial Ryegrass (tetraploid)

AspectBest all round variety in its group. R Bold 1(P) G

DelphinReliable high yielding variety. R Bold - G

GlencarGood annual yields and 2014 Plain 1 -outstanding first cut yield.

DriftHigh yields combined with - - 1 PG excellent animal nutrition attributes.

XenonExceptionally high grazing yields R Plain 2 PSof superb forage quality.

TwymaxVery dense for a tetraploid, R Bold 1 Gpalatable and digestible.

NovelloHigh yields for grazing and In trial - 1 (*) Gcutting.

NEW

NEW

NEW

NEW

NEW

24

KEY VARIETIES IN

SINCLAIR MCGILL

MIXTURES


Ireland & Wales

Hybrid Ryegrass (tetraploid)

AllianceItalian yields with an extra year's R - 1 -persistency

AmalgamTrue hybrid combining persistency - Plain 3 Gand high yield with excellent forage quality

ScapinoLatest heading true hybrid with - Plain 2 PSexcellent nutritional properties

EnduroVery persistent leaning towards - - 2 Gits perennial parent.

Italian Ryegrass (diploid)

DavinciGood ground cover for an Italian R - 1 Gwith good Dvalues

BellunaSister line to Davinci with almost - - 1 Gidentical performance

MeribelGood forage quality and high - Bold 1 Gyields

Italian Ryegrass (tetraploid)

GeminiHigh yields of excellent forage - - 1 Gquality.

Udine Tetraploid Italian with high total - - 3 Gannual yields and excellent first cut silage yields.

Timothy

ComerVery high yielding from 2nd - Bold 1 Gyear on.

ComtalGood all round performance - Plain 1 G

ErectaEarlier maturing variety - Plain 1

NEW


Ireland & Wales

White Clover

AliceLarge leaf R Bold 1 G

BarblancaLarge leaf R Bold 1(P) G

CrusaderMedium leaf R Bold 1 G

ViolinCusp between medium and In trial - 1 (P) PGlarge leaf

Grasslands DemandSmall to medium small leaf - Bold 1 G

Grasslands BountyMedium leaf - Bold 1 G

SaracenMedium leaf - - 2 PG

Aberystwyth S184Very small leaf - - 1 G

Red Clover

Maro (tetraploid)Highest yielding variety on - - - -England and Wales list

MerviotBenchmark variety with good NA Bold 1 Gyields for 2 - 3 years.

SW AresThis variety was tested in - - - -Limagrain trials where it out-yielded the control varieties and exhibited good persistence.

NEW

NEW

NEW

25

KEY SPECIES FORPRODUCTIVEGRASSLAND

The grasses which are used most often when formulatingmixtures for livestock farmers in the UK and Ireland are detailedbelow. In addition to the ryegrasses we also provide informationon other species including Timothy, cocksfoot and the fescues.

Perennial ryegrasses (Lolium perenne)This grass species is the most widely used here and is thecornerstone of the vast majority of the ley mixtures sown in theUK and Ireland.. This is not surprising when you consider that it isa persistent, adaptable, long-lived species and is capable of veryhigh yields – especially in the first harvest year. Generallyspeaking, the perennial ryegrasses have good winter hardinessand they establish rapidly.

There are many varieties available and these are basicallysubdivided into three categories – early, mid-season and lateflowering. The early varieties will head in mid-May whereas thelate varieties generally come into flower in mid-June.

Early perennialsThese early flowering varieties have an erect growth habit andthe ability to bulk up rapidly in the spring for conservation cuts.The varieties also grow well in early spring which is a valuableattribute in most grazing mixtures. Early perennials are morepersistent than Italian ryegrasses but tend to have a lower mid-season production potential.

Mid-season ‘intermediate’ perennialsThese have a denser, more prostrate growth habit than the earlyperennials and boast a longer production season. Persistency isgood and the yield potential under both grazing andconservation management is high. Mid-season perennials aresometimes used to help put some extra ‘bottom’ into short termmixtures as well as in the primary role of providing good yields inlong term mixtures.

Late flowering ‘pasture’ perennialsRyegrass varieties in this category should be extremelypersistent and consequently provide the essential backbone ofany long term ley designed for intensive grazing by cattle orsheep. The dense growth habit associated with pastureperennials will give a well designed ley extremely good toleranceto treading. The yield potential is very high and pastureperennials generally exhibit good mid-season and end of seasongrowth.

Italian ryegrasses (Lolium multiflorum)As Italian ryegrasses offer the highest yields of any ryegrassspecies they are the mainstay of conservation mixtures.However, Italians do not have great persistency – they lastbetween 18-30 months – so their use tends to be in short termleys for silage. Italian ryegrasses have an erect growth habit andare 2-3 weeks earlier than the ‘early perennials’. The vigorouslygrowing Italians should respond well to nitrogenous fertiliser butas they produce relatively few tillers the sward can becomerather open. Italian ryegrasses are sometimes sown specificallyto provide ‘early bite’ grazing in March or earlier – followed by aleafy silage cut. Note that the winter hardiness of Italianryegrasses will be enhanced when all the surplus growth which ispresent in the autumn is removed. To achieve the optimum levelof spring growth with this species it is best to establish it in latesummer or early autumn. Italian ryegrasses really need frequentcutting and tight grazing to maintain quality.

Hybrid ryegrassesCarefully bred hybrids between Italian and perennial ryegrassparents can exhibit some very useful attributes indeed. They shouldbe more persistent than the Italians and last between 24-48months depending on the variety. They can be more productivethan perennials and offer quick recovery after cutting or grazing.Hybrids will respond well to applications of nitrogen and will help toimprove the persistency of short term conservation mixtures.Hybrids normally exhibit better ground cover than Italian ryegrass.Hybrid ryegrass makes an excellent companion to red clover forhigh protein leys.

Tetraploid ryegrassesThere are tetraploid versions of both the Italian and perennialryegrasses. The plant size is similar to the traditional diploid typesbut the leaves of tetraploids are normally much broader and theoverall growth habit is more erect. Compared with diploids thetetraploid varieties offer a number of plus points including thefollowing:

• A higher palatability factor• An increase in soluble carbohydrates (high sugar levels)• Good winter hardiness• More tolerance to drought conditions

Traditionally tetraploids were less persistent but this trait has beenlargely eradicated by plant breeding. Tetraploids can be up to 2%higher in moisture than diploids.

Key Species for Productive Grassland

26

Italian Ryegrass

KEY SPECIES FORPRODUCTIVEGRASSLAND

Timothy (Phleum pratense)This is a very winter hardy species which will persist well in wetconditions. Timothy (sometimes called catstail) has the ability tomaintain its production on poorer soils. In addition, this speciesprovides good mid-summer growth and maintains its palatabilitywhen other grasses are losing theirs. With these features Timothyis often included in both cutting and grazing mixtures which arebeing sown in the North and West of the country. In cooler andwetter conditions the Timothy will enhance the palatability of theleys and boost that all-important mid-season production. It is verygood for sheep grazing pastures. Timothy commences growth at alower temperature than ryegrass thus producing good early bite.

Cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata)In the past cocksfoot has traditionally been added to leys sown onlighter soils to help improve drought tolerance and provide autumnkeep in November and December. A good variety of cocksfoot willboost the mid-season production potential of ley mixtures andmost varieties have good winter hardiness. Although cocksfoot hassome strong attributes it also has a major drawback – it very easilybecomes ‘tussocky’ and unpalatable to stock. Cocksfoot has lowerdigestibility and soluble carbohydrate figures than ryegrass. Its usetends to be limited to leys which have a very specific role to play ondifficult soil types.

Westerwolds (Lolium multiflorum westerwoldicum)These are annual grasses and when sown in the spring or summerwill flower in the same year. This is a prolific species when it comesto heading so defoliation by cutting or grazing is essential toprevent a serious decline in digestibility. The key benefit with thisspecies is the rapid production that can be achieved within 12-14weeks of sowing. Westerwolds are rarely used in ley mixtures –

their relatively short life but fast growth potential means they areinvariably sown straight. From a spring sowing of Westerwolds onewould expect a typical silage yield of 13.5 tonnes of DM/ha.

Red fescue (Festuca rubra)This winter hardy early growing species is also used very sparinglyin modern ley mixtures. Red fescue will maintain production onpoor soils with a low pH. It offers good mid-season growth and willinvariably thrive when grown under cold, wet conditions. Likecocksfoot, red fescue is used in mixtures which have been targetedat quite specific farming situations. It needs tight grazing tomaintain leafiness and quality.

Meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis)A nutritious and leafy species which has traditionally been sownwith Timothy in grass/clover leys. This species is less vigorous andhas a lower yield potential than perennial ryegrass. Is sometimesused in mixtures which are designed for extensive rather thanintensive situations.

27

Westerwolds

SPECIALISTCROPS &

MIXTURES

28

Forage Herb MixturesThese mixtures offer an improved variation in diet for your stock aswell as significant agronomic and nutritional properties.

Agronomic benefits include improvements in drought toleranceand soil structure.

Nutritional benefits derive from the mixtures high mineral contentand palatability. Chicory has been shown to increase live-weight gainin lambs even faster than white clover.

Health benefits aids the natural expulsion process and creates ahostile gut environment.

The following mixtures are best sown in distinct strips or small openpaddock blocks freely accessible to stock. Allow sufficient time forthe herbs to fully establish before allowing access to stock. Oncefully established, the mixtures should be grazed hard to prevent theherbs running to seed or becoming “woody”.

Lamb Tonic is a new concept which was developed in New Zealand.The use of plantain provides additional mineral content and fasterfinishing. The crop has the ability to regrow after initial grazing.

Cheviot Chicory Mixture35% Forage Chicory (Choice or Chico)

20% Comer Timothy

20% Trintella Intermediate Perennial Ryegrass (tetraploid)

10% Elgon Late Perennial Ryegrass (tetraploid)

15% Cheviot White Clover Blend

100% Sow at 14 kilos per hectare (5.7 kilos per acre)

White Clover, Timothy and Tetraploid Ryegrasses make excellentcompanions for Chicory and this mixture provides a completesummer diet for finishing lambs.

Forage Herb Mixture30% Forage Plantain (Tonic)

20% Forage Chicory (Chico or Choice)


15% Comer Timothy



Similar attributes to Cheviot Chicory mixture but the inclusion ofTonic Forage Plantain elevates the mineral content.

Lamb Tonic25% White Clover

12.5% Plantain Tonic

62.5% Chicory

100% Sow at 10 kilos per hectare (4 kilos per acre)

Stock Finisher30% Forage Chicory (Choice or Chico)

40% Red Admiral Red Clover Blend




Up to three year mixture for intensive finishing of livestock.

A very high source of protein which is ideal for finishing earlylambs. Full season production.

Specialist Crops & Mixtures & Forage Herb MixturesLucerneThe realisation that lucerne offers such a high proteincontent – good drought tolerance and is relatively long lived– has prompted a revival of interest in this very underratedcrop. Lucerne can be baled for hay or made into big balesilage and its potential yield will be in the order of 14-15tonnes of DM/ha/year. The crop can provide excellentyields for three full years (following a summer sowing).

Contact your Authorised Distributor if you would like moreinformation on lucerne and the range of varieties we haveavailable. You will also find more information about lucerneon our comprehensive website www.sinclairmcgill.ie

Agricultural MustardDepending on soil fertility and soil moisture a good crop ofmustard for ploughing in can be obtained from applying 30-40 units of N. You can expect around 15 tonnes ofgreen manure/acre can be achieved from 80 units of N.

Santa FeThis variety offers fast growth potential, excellent leafproduction and good tolerance to drought. The rapidestablishment of this variety means that it can competesuccessfully against weeds in late autumn.

Salvo This is a variety which develops considerable bulk with agood dry matter yield – an important requirement forsuccessful green manuring. A key feature with Salvo is thatthe variety can help to reduce free living nematodes –particularly sugar beet nematodes (Hederodera schachtii).Secretions from the roots of Salvo encourage thenematodes eggs to hatch. However, Salvo is not actually ahost plant and so the nematodes die – consequently thenematode population on that particular field can be greatlyreduced.

If you want to encourage gamebirds on your farm then you need tohave access to a range of sensiblypriced and commercially provenmixtures and individual crops.Fortunately, our technical staffhave spent many years workingwith the acknowledged experts inthis field and, as a result, we havebeen able to bring together allthe information you need tomake the right cropping decisions based on yourindividual needs.

This vital information can be found in our HiBirdGamecover catalogue which features crops likemillets, giant sorghum, maize and quinoa. In addition,the HiBird catalogue also provides helpful hints on howto establish and manage the mixtures and individualcrops which are featured.

Gamecover Mixtures

Ask for a copytoday!

29

FORAGE CHICORY

Advantages:● Increased milk production

● Higher live-weight gain in lambs and beef animals

● Good drought tolerance and mid-summer growth

● Elevated mineral and trace elements

● Contributes to the creation of a hostile gut environment forhealthy livestock

● Persists for two to four years

ManagementDrill in to warm (10°+) well drained soils at a depth of about10mm.

Sow at 3 to 6 kilos per hectare straight or 1 to 4 kilos in amixture with grasses and clovers.

Best sown in herbal strips or blocks rather than through an entireley, as if it bolts (flowers) the ley might need to be taken out ofproduction.

Best rotationally grazed. Re-grazing should only be undertakenwhen 2 to 4 leaves per plant have fully regrown.

Preferred VarietiesGrasslands Choice

● Very high yields in temperate climates

● Extremely tolerant of drought

● The best variety for dairy units as Choice was especially bredto reduce the concentrations of lactones that cause bitternessand can lead to milk taint

Chico ● Very high yields from an upright and

leafy variety of good ME anddigestibility

● Good drought tolerance. The tap rootcan exceed one metre in length!

Forage Chicory

ForageChicory

Growers GuideAvailable

Lambs finish faster on Chico Chicory.

The photographshows a chicorycrop - whichforms one of thekey ingredientsof our new lambtonic mixture.

CATCH CROPS

30

Crop Data Stubble Turnip Forage Rape & Hybrids Forage Rye Forage Peas

Sowing Date April - August May - August Sept - Oct March - late July

Sowing Rate (kg/ha) 5-8 6-8 185 125-150

Utilisation Period June - Dec July-Jan Feb - April Mid June - early Oct

Fresh Yield (tonnes/ha) 38-45 24-35 20-24 37-50

% DM 8-9 12-14 25 20-25

Total DM (tonnes/ha) 3.5-5.0 3.5-4.0 5-6 8-10

Crude Protein 17-18 19-20 11-12 18-20% of the DM

D Value Bulb 80 Leaf 70 65% 67% 65%

Metabolisable 11 10-11 10 10 (silage)Energy MJ/kg DM

Stubble Turnip

summer autumn/winter

Tyfon DelilahSamsonRondo

autumn winter

Interval Humbolt*

* can also be made into big bale silage

Magnus*

* also ideal for use in arable silage mixtures

Hobson

Forage Rape Forage Rye Forage Peas

Catch CropsThese are ideal for maximising the use of your crop rotationsas they can produce ‘fast food’ from a short growth cycle

SamsonVery palatable to both sheepand cattle. High intakes andlive weight gains.

RondoFor sheep or cattle. Excellentdisease resistance. Increasedintakes.

TyfonDairy or beef cattle. Verypalatable leafy crop within 10-12 weeks from sowing.Re-growth potential.

DelilahAn excellent variety withincreased yield potential andutilisation.

HobsonTried and tested throughoutthe UK and exhibits excellentresistance to powdery mildew.Very fast to establish andhighly palatable.

Interval - Rape/Kale Bred by the James HuttonInstitute, Dundee. Interval hasoutyielded some varieties by20% DM yields over 5 years ofUK trials. Interval is verypalatable and is suitable forcattle and sheep.

HumboltSuperb tillering capacity andearly vegetative growth. Superb tillering capacity andearly vegetative growthenables early turnout.The ability to recover quicklyafter grazing/cutting. Top yield potential and provenfield performance on a widerange of soils.The crop can also be zerograzed and several farmershave made big bale silage outof their Humbolt crops.

MagnusThe first semi-leafless varietyof forage pea to be marketedin the UK. The interlockingtendrils on this variety ensurethat it resists lodging –particularly when sown as apure stand. Magnus can alsobe supplied as part of a highyielding arable silage mixtureincorporating spring barley/oroats. More details on request.Organic seed also available.

Grazed Conserved

Forage crops are now playing an increasingly important role inIrish agriculture. The feeding of livestock economically andefficiently puts ever greater pressure on producers to considerall cost saving options available to them. Crops can be fed allyear round to reduce reliance on bought in concentrates. By selecting the correct species and varieties, livestock farmers

can confidently look forward to maximising their homegrown feed production and enhancing their profitability.Home grown feeds can help to produce an excellent partof a mixed forage diet. Understanding the feedrequirements of your animals will ensure maximum returnsand healthier cows!

Your Opportunity to Profit from Forage Crops

31

FULL SEASON CROPS

Crop Data Kale Turnips Swede Fodder Beet

Sowing Date April-July Late May-early June Early May-mid June Early March-April

Sowing Rate (kg/ha) Nat. 4-5 Gr. 1-2 Nat. 2.5-5 Gr. 0.6-0.85 Nat. 3-5 Gr.0.6-0.85 100,000 seeds

Utilisation Period Sept-March Oct-Feb Oct-March Nov-April

Fresh Yield (tonnes/ha) 60-65 59-69 70-90 80-90

% DM 14-16 8-10 10-13 15-22

Total DM (tonnes/ha) 8-10 5.50-6 7-10 13-15

Crude Protein 16-17 15-17 10-11 12-13% of the DM

D Value 68% 80% 82% 78-80%

Metabolisable 10-11 11 12.8-13.1 12.5-13.0Energy MJ/kg D

Kale

autumn use winter use

Grampian

sheep & cattle

Lomond

sheep & cattle

InvitationGowrie

sheep

sheep

beef & dairy

Keeper

Caledonian

autumn use

Massif

sheep & cattle

autumn/winterwinter use

BlazeBlizzardFeldherr

dairy, beef or sheep

autumn lifting

Swede Maincrop Turnip Fodder Beet

Full Season CropsThese require a full season production cycle but can offer the highest yield potential

Grazed Conserved

Caledonian FBT

The first Kale bred for clubroot resistance. Caledonian’s‘huge’ yields make it ideal forutilisation by dairy and beefcattle.

Keeper FBTA medium/shorter type idealfor fattening store lambs andproviding high quality winterkeep.

Grampian FBTAn improved marrow stemtype with huge yields, goodstanding ability and is wellsuited for strip or zero grazing.

Lomond FBTA high yielding variety withboth powdery mildew and clubroot resistance.

Invitation FBTA very uniform variety which isresistant to most races of clubroot. Ideal for utilisation afterChristmas. Invitation also hasexcellent resistance topowdery mildew.

Gowrie FBTA very high yielding varietyideal for post Christmasgrazing.

MassifA new yellow fleshed varietywith a very high yield, and isideal for pre and postChristmas utilisation. Massif isa first class replacement forAberdeen Green Top Scotch.

Bred by

BlazeBlaze combines very high dry matter yieldswith an excellent clean root. Its bright redroots are ideally lifted with leaf liftingequipment and can be fed whole due totheir medium dry matter content.BlizzardBlizzard has been bred specially to producevery high dry matter yields. Its growthhabit makes it ideally suited for harvestingwith sugar beet machinery. Blizzard’s highdry matter content coupled with the highpercentage of white skinned root growingunderground, will make this variety moreresistant to frost and winter damage.FeldherrFeldherr will produce a huge fresh yield oflow drying matter roots. It is ideal forfeeding to dairy cows but makes anexcellent feed for broken toothed ewesthat can handle the low dry mattercontent. Feldherr is typically grazed in thefield but where necessary can be harvestedwith a mechanical leaf lifter.

Many of our varieties areoffered with a flea beetleseed treatment. These are marked: FBT

Bred by

Bred by

Bred by

Bred by

Mixed forage diets will help increase intakes and ensure optimum rumen stability, improved feed utilisation and animal performance.

Many forages are now better understood leading to improved intake predictions, and accurateassessments for both energy and protein requirements.

As milk yields have risen, so has the drive to increase the amount of food the cow will eat, allowing theopportunity for Irish farmers to exploit the use of cheaper home grown forages.

The Importance of Mixed Forage Crops Benefits of Forage Crops● Improved profitability

● Reduced reliance on purchased feed

● Full traceability

● Flexible cropping options

● An excellent break crop

Nat. = NaturalGr. = Graded

FODDERMIXTURES,

ARABLE SILAGE &

WHOLECROPPEAS

32

Fodder Mixtures

● Very fast establishment for autumn use

● Good disease resistance to ensure quality

● Value autumn feed

Sow at: 2.5 kg/acreSowing Time: summer/early autumn

● Ideal for later use

● Winter hardy varieties

● Italian ryegrass improves crop density

Sow at: 7 kg/acreSowing Time: summer/autumn

Autumn Keep MixtureMIXTURE COMPOSITION

Late LambMIXTURE COMPOSITION

Hobson Forage Rape 1.00 kgSamson Stubble Turnip 0.50 kgRondo Stubble Turnip 0.75 kgKeeper Kale 0.25 kg

2.50 kg

Rape/Kale Hybrid Interval 1.00 kgStubble Turnip Rondo 1.00 kgItalian Ryegrass 5.00 kg

7.00 kg

Wholecrop PeasWholecrop peas can besown straight or mixed withcereals and are capable ofproducing a heavy yieldingcrop that is high in bothprotein and starch. It can beundersown with a spring leyor will act as an excellententry for an autumn reseed.Sown in March or April thecrop can be harvested in16-20 weeks.

Magnus pea isrecommended for itsstanding power and highyields.Arable Silage Mixtures

These mixtures contain differentcombinations of both cereals and peas thatcan provide a valuable source of protein andstarch. The ensiled crop can produceexcellent winter feed rations for dairy, beefor sheep.

● Excellent yields in 13-16 weeks

● Can be undersown with a new grass ley

● Ideally used as part of a mixed forage diet

A proven blend of forage pea Magnus andspring barley which can produce high qualitysilage with excellent protein content.

Prosile

An organic version of this popular mixture.

Prosile Organic

A traditional blend ideally suited for usein a mixed forage diet.

Sow at 125-150 kilos/ha undersownwith grass.

Sow at 175-200 kilos/ha for best results.

Protein Plus

60% Forage Pea40% Spring Barley

100%

70% Organic Forage Pea30% Organic Spring Barley

100%

40% Spring Barley35% Spring Oats25% Forage Pea

100%

33

SEED SOWING

RATES

Seed Sowing Rates

Type of seed Quality (kilos/acre) Sowing Date

Barley (Spring) 65-75 February-March

(Winter) 50-75 September-October

Wheat (Winter) 75 September-November

(Spring) 75 January-March

Oats (Winter) 75 September-October

(Spring) 75 September-October

Field Beans (Winter) 75-100 October

(Spring) 75-100 February-March

Combining Peas (Marrowfat) 100-115

(Small Blues) 110-125 February-March

(Large Blues) 100-120

(Whites) 90-110

Linseed 25 Mid March-mid April

Ryegrass (Hybrid) 14.75-16.25 March-September

(Italian) 13-16 March-September

(Perennial) 13-18 March-September

(Westerwolds) 16 March-May

Clover, Red 3.5-5 March-August

Clover, Tetraploid Red 4.5-5.5 March-August

Lucerne 7.5 April-August

Forage Peas 75* March-late July

*(Sowing rate is reduced in arable silage blends)

Forage Rye 75 September-October

Forage Rye/Italian Ryegrass 50/7 September-October

Forage Maize 45,000 seeds Mid April-mid May

Mustard 5-10 May-August

Fodder Rape 2-4 May-August

Tares (vetches) 75 January-April or Sept

Stubble Turnips 2-3 April-August

Full Season Turnips (Natural) 1-2 Late May-early June (N)

(Graded) 0.25-0.35 June-early July (S)

Fodder Beet (Monogerm) 50,000 seeds April-early May

(Pelleted)

Kale (Natural) 1-3 April-June

(Graded) 0.5-0.75

Swedes (Natural) 1-2 Early May-mid June (N)

(Graded) 0.25-0.35 Late May-mid June (S)

(N) North (S) South

EQUESTRIANMIXTURES

Equipaddock Range

This mixture has been formulated toprovide grazing for horses and ponies withintermittent rests from grazing to producea hay crop. Depending on any herbspresent we would recommend the additionof a minimum of 250 grams of mixedherbs per acre (either mixed with the grassor preferably sown in strips in the sward)to improve the nutritional aspects of thesward.

The mixture is designed to perform wellwith moderate inputs of nitrogen, but agood application before closing off for haywill produce the best results.

All natural seedSow at 10-15 kg per acre

Our popular range of equestrian mixturescontinue to satisfy the demands of a diverserange of requirements from horse hay toherbs.

All our mixtures (which are packed in 10 kilobags) have been specifically formulated afterextensive consultation with EquineNutritionists. They therefore avoid high sugar

grasses, popular in agriculture, because theycan increase the risk of Laminitis in horses andinduce “stroppy” temperaments in mares.

The requirement in a mixture can varydepending on the type of horse involved andthese mixtures cover the range ofrequirements we have had over the yearsfrom racing gallops to pony paddocks.

Horse Paddock Mixture

This mixture is designed to produce a verydense, springy sward, capable ofwithstanding very heavy wear and is ofcourse also perfectly suited to racecoursesand polo pitches.

Naturally the regular maintenance of thisarea will pay off by ensuring the turfmaintains its springy nature.

All natural seedSow at 20-40kg per acre

Gallops & Schooling Area Mixture

This mixture is designed to produce highquality horse hay with that special 'nose'that can only come from a good Timothycontent. It will also provide useful grazingin the early spring and during late summerand autumn. In winter it should only begrazed lightly if a good hay crop is desired.

All natural seedSow at 12-15 kg per acre

Horse Hay Mixture

This mixture is designed to produce agood, well balanced sward especiallysuitable for mares and their foals. The deeprooted herbs will improve the calcium andphosphorus levels, being two of the moreimportant trace elements so important forthe growth and bone development inyoung horses.


Stud Paddock Mixture

The Stallion Paddock mixture is formulatedto withstand harder wear whilst stillmaintaining a dense, springy and nutritioussward. It contains MONDIAL turf typeperennial ryegrass, which is rated very wellindeed for its wear tolerance and earlygrowth.


Stallion Paddock Mixture

Our herb mixture has been speciallydeveloped for horses and ponies andincludes a number of deep rooting andnutritious species which provide a goodsource of minerals and trace elements.

Our mixed herbs are included in selectedgrass seed mixtures, but are also availableseparately for sowing in strips or islands inthe field which often gives betterestablishment.

A short term mixture for the production ofquality haylage. High in fibre, but with agood "nose".


Available in 1kg packsSow at 250-500g/acre

Herb Mixture

Haylage Mixture

Our Equipaddock Original Mixture isavailable in 1/2 acre plastic bucketscontaining 7kg of seed and also in 10kgbags.

A slightly amended mixture to ourstandard Horse Paddock, this handy packenables you to reseed areas and at thesame time leaves you a plastic containerthat will be useful around your stables.

All natural seedAvailable in 1/2 acre buckets

Equipaddock Original Mixture

SOWING RATES:For complete re-seeds we recommenda sowing rate of 15-20kg per acre andfor overseeds or improvements 10-15 kg per acre depending on howmuch the sward has deteriorated.

Our seed is supplied in handy 10kgpacks

7% Smooth Stalked Meadowgrass14% Creeping Red Fescue17% Timothy62% Late Perennial Ryegrass

100%

15% Timothy5% Cocksfoot5% Meadow Fescue

75% Late Perennial Ryegrass

100%

6% Crested Dogstail6% Smooth Stalked Meadowgrass

15% Creeping Red Fescue48% Late Perennial Ryegrass20% Turf Type Perennial Ryegrasss

5% Herb Mixture

100%

6% Crested Dogstail10% Slender Creeping Red Fescue12% Smooth Stalked Meadowgrass12% Creeping Red Fescue29% Late Perennial Ryegrass28% Turf Type Perennial Ryegrasss

3% Herb Mixture

100%

4% Crested Dogstail20% Slender Creeping Red Fescue10% Smooth Stalked Meadowgrass10% Creeping Red Fescue28% Late Perennial Ryegrass28% Turf Type Perennial Ryegrasss

100%

35% Chicory25% Burnet10% Ribgrass30% Sheep’s Parsley

100%

8% Timothy50% Italian Ryegrass22% Mid-season Perennial Ryegrass20% Hybrid Ryegrass

100%

15% Early Perennial Ryegrass30% Mid-season Perennial Ryegrass23% Late Perennial Ryegrass12% Timothy

4% Smooth Stalked Meadowgrass16% Creeping Red Fescue

100%

34

AMENITY

Amenity

Winter sports renovation (Football &Rugby) and any situation where good weartolerance and rapid establishment are themain requirements.

Sowing Rate 35-50g/m2

Cutting Height 20mm

Olympic

For high wear utility areas and wintersports at a competitive price.

Unlike some of our competitors productsthis mixture does not contain agriculturalstrains of ryegrass.

Sowing Rate 25-35/m2

Cutting Height 25mm

Economy

40% Doremi Perennial Ryegrass40% Essence Perennial Ryegrass20% Disco Perennial Ryegrass

100%

For winter sports renovation, playing fieldsand other areas requiring rapidestablishment.


Cutting Height 20mm

Anfield

45% Disco Perennial Ryegrass40% Mondial Perennial Ryegrass15% Corail Strong Creeping Red Fescue

100%

For recreation grounds, good hardwearinglawns and landscaped areas.


Cutting Height 20mm

Alderley

25% Disco Perennial Ryegrass30% Doremi Perennial Ryegrass15% Yvette Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass30% Heidrun Strong Creeping Red Fescue

100%

For recreation grounds, good qualityhardwearing lawns and landscaped areas.


Cutting Height 20mm

Universal

25% Disco Perennial Ryegrass30% Doremi Perennial Ryegrass10% Trophy Chewings Fescue35% Corial Strong Creeping Red Fescue

100%

For top quality lawns that will also takesome wear and tear. The turf ryegrassesincluded produce a fine leaved lawn, whichwill give an excellent appearance.


Cutting Height 13mm

Stately Home

30% Malibu Perennial Ryegrass20% Doremi Perennial Ryegrass25% Maritza Chewings Fescue20% Smirna Slender Creeping Red Fescue

5% Sefton Browntop Bent

100%

30% Disco Perennial Ryegrass40% Doremi Perennial Ryegrass30% Corail Strong Creeping Red Fescue

100%

For partially shaded areas or dryconditions.

This is a very low maintenance mixture andit is also suitable for environmentalheadlands.

Sowing Rate 25-35/m2

Cutting Height 25mm

Shade

5% Highland Browntop Bent20% Crystal Hard Fescue25% Corail Strong Creeping Red Fescue10% Smirna Slender Creeping Red Fescue10% Maritza Chewings Fescue10% Cocktail Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass10% Southlands Crested Dogs Tail10% Dasas Rough Stalked Meadow Grass

100%

For front lawns, landscaped areas, buildingsurrounds and low maintenance areas.


Cutting Height 25mm

Trophy

20% Maritza Chewings Fescue75% Corail Strong Creeping Red Fescue

5% Highland Browntop Bent

100%

For ornamental lawns and high qualitylandscaping.

Produces a dense, fine leaved sward thatcan be mown as low as 20mm.


Cutting Height 20mm

Trafford

25% Maritza Chewings Fescue50% Heidrun Strong Creeping Red Fescue20% Smirna Slender Creeping Red Fescue

5% Sefton Browntop Bent

100%

For golf greens, putting greens and anyother very close mown turf.

Produces a fast, true green.

Sowing Rate 35g/m2

Cutting Height 5mm

Putting & Bowling

55% Maritza Chewings Fescue15% Smirna Slender Creeping Red Fescue10% Carousel Slender Creeping Red Fescue20% Arletta Browntop Bent

100%

All our amenity mixturesare treated withHEADSTART® GOLDand packed in 10kgbags. All varieties aresubject to change.

35

DISTRIBUTORS & STOCKISTS

36

Distributors & Stockists

MUNSTERArrabawn Retail Branches 087 669 7010 Tom Starr Arrabawn Central Nenagh, Co. Tipperary

091 844086 Paul Madden Athenry Co. Galway

090 6492885 Cormac Dolan Athlone Co. Westmeath

067 31347 Mortimer Hogan Ballywilliam Nenagh, Co. Tipperary

057 91 20276 Bernard Dunne Birr Co. Offaly

067 27146 Pat Walsh Borrisokane Co. Tipperary

061 377403 P J Kennedy Bridgetown Co. Clare

093 45790 Seamus Finn Clonberne Co. Galway

090 96 79480 Mark Whelan Mountbellew Co. Galway

090 96 76122 Padraig Broderick Killimor Co. Galway

061 378193 John Coffey Newport Co. Tipperary

062 78102 John Berkery Reiska Thurles, Co. Tipperary

067 41886 Eamonn Power Tyone Mills Nenagh, Co. Tipperary

Niall O'Brien 872657836 Niall O'Brien Ballydaly Millstreet, Co. Cork

Jim Quinn Agri Limited 058 41311 Jim Quinn Dungarvan Co. Waterford

087 2624250 Will Quinn Dungarvan Co. Waterford

058 41619 Sean O'Connor Dungarvan Co. Waterford

087 2624252 Willie Walsh Dungarvan Co. Waterford

Cyril Cullinane 086 8362573 Cyril Cullinane Ennis Co. Clare

Martin McCarthy 087 2304706 Martin McCarthy Highmount Feenagh, Co. Limerick

Pat O'Sullivan 086 2543324 Pat O'Sullivan Lower Athea Athea, Co. Limerick

Mid West Farm Nutrition 087 2576679 Willie Burke Foxhall Charleville, Co. Limerick

063 81760 Office Foxhall Charleville, Co. Limerick

Clean Line Farm Services Ltd 087 2542087 Joe Hayes O'Brien St, Tipperary Town Co. Tipperary

087 9754226 Cathal Hayes O'Brien St, Tipperary Town Co. Tipperary

Star Fuels & Farm Supplies 086 256 9733 Pat Myers Clonmel Co. Tipperary

087 2223214 Paddy McMeel Clonmel Co. Tipperary

087 2602970 Ray Connolly Clonmel Co. Tipperary

086 8511935 Liam O'Donnell Clonmel Co. Tipperary

087 2591691 Richard Kennedy Clonmel Co. Tipperary

087 6426911 Eamonn Phelan Clonmel Co. Tipperary

087 2504713 David Myers 23 Bank Place Mitchelstown, Co. Tipperary

086 0292650 Aidan Myers 23 Bank Place Mitchelstown, Co. Tipperary

086 0117801 Caoimhin McGrath 23 Bank Place Mitchelstown, Co. Tipperary

025 24714 Office 23 Bank Place Mitchelstown, Co. Tipperary

Barry Gleeson 087 2829346 Barry Gleeson Rathcabbin Roscrea, Co. Tipperary

Kellihers Feeds & 086 8136865 John Lynch Ballymullen Tralee, Co Kerry

Agri Supplies Ltd

066 7123436 Dan O'Connell Ballymullen Tralee, Co Kerry

066 7123436 Brian Shanahan Ballymullen Tralee, Co Kerry

066 7123436 Noel Fealey Ballymullen Tralee, Co Kerry

AMAC Farm Supplies 021 4630683 Richard McCarthy Townspark Midleton, Co. Cork

Ireland

37

DISTRIBUTORS & STOCKISTS

Distributors & Stockists

LEINSTER

Conroy Farm Supplies 087 2310011 Eoin Conroy Geashill Co. Offaly

Coyle Agri 090 6473697 Fergal Coyle Dublin Rd, Athlone Co. Westmeath

Euro Farm & Garden Supplies 056 7723199 George Power Loughboy Ind Est, Ring Rd Co. Kilkenny

Fitzpatrick Agri 086 8257458 Eamonn Fitzpatrick Ballybrophy Co. Laois

Loughran Stores 042 9322041 Eamonn McKevitt Haggardstown Dundalk, Co. Louth

Quinns of Baltinglass 059 6481266 Dinny Murphy Baltinglass Co. Wicklow

Slaney Agricultural Supplies 053 9383227 Peadar Carter Ballyeden Camolin, Co. Wexford

087 2586961 Stuart Quinn Ballyeden Camolin, Co. Wexford

087 9199609 Michael Sweeney Ballyeden Camolin, Co. Wexford

Kilmacow Fuel & Agri 051 881894 John Walsh Skeard Kilmacow, Co. Kilkenny

Fingal Farm Supplies 087 2529991 Tony Corbally Oldtown Co. Dublin

01 8433805 Office Oldtown Co. Dublin

John Daltons & Sons 086 3829847 Paul McKevitt Chancellors Mills Talbots Inch, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

087 9065524 Patsy Wilson Chancellors Mills Talbots Inch, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

086 2507821 Denis Dalton Chancellors Mills Talbots Inch, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

056 7721705 Eoin Burke Chancellors Mills Talbots Inch, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

057 8737187 William O'Connell Cullahill Portlaoise, Co. Laois

ULSTERGibson Farm Services 074 91 45145 William Gibson Raphoe Ballyholey, Co. Donegal

Gibson Farm Services 074 91 63344 William Carre Forquar Milford, Co. Donegal

Gibson Farm Services 074 91 75889 Michael O'Malley Meetinghouse St Stranorlar, Co. Donegal

Gibson Donegal Ltd 074 97 25348 Seamus Cannon Donegal town Clar, Co. Donegal

Gibson Agri Ltd 028 71 384440 Mark Gordon 33-37 Dock St Strabane, Co. Tyrone

(048 from ROI) BT82 8EE

Broomfield Agri 086 6993861 William McElwaine Broomfield Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan

042 9743925 Office Broomfield Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan

CONNACHTPaul Feeney 087 6671764 Paul Feeney Roslea, Easkey Co. Sligo

Tom Freeman 086 8232545 Tom Freeman Loughbown, Aughrim Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

As well as supplying our top quality

grass & clover mixtures all these

distributors & stockists will be able

to offer you a comprehensive

range of other forage crops.

If you cannot find a Sinclair McGilldistributor in yourarea please

telephone ourcommercial office on

051 897 060

Grass & Forage Crops Handbook

Contact your nearest distributor:

Limagrain UK Limited. Registered No. 1305690 England. Registered Office. Rothwell, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF SALEAll varieties listed in this Handbook are offered strictly subject to safe harvest, final

certification and remaining unsold on receipt of orders. All other terms and conditions of salewill be advised by your individual ‘Sinclair McGill’ Authorised Distributor or stockist.

January 2016

IRELAND

DLF SeedsBallymountain, Waterford, Ireland, X91 V6YR

Tel: 051 897060 Fax: 051 832038E-mail: [email protected] www.sinclairmcgill.ie

For sales contact:Damian McAllister – 0044 777 4249609

Kevin Cunningham – 086 8290765Paul Flanagan - 086 8165420

DISTRIBUTORS FOR IRELAND

grass & forage crops handbook - seed...

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