Key points:

Dairy and livestock producers could save on herbicide costs and better manage herbicide resistant ryegrass by sowing a performance-bred tetraploid annual ryegrass into existing ryegrass pastures.

Darrel Rowe, recently appointed as Wrightson Seeds Australia’s sales agronomist for South Australia and western Victoria, said herbicide-resistant ryegrass was driving many farming systems in the region.

"With increasing numbers of herbicide-resistant ryegrass populations being observed in the area, and herbicide costs rising, dairy and livestock producers are looking for solutions to manage the problem and reduce their herbicide costs," Darrel said.

"Tetraploid annual ryegrass sown into existing pastures of Wimmera ryegrass is an effective solution that provides additional benefits for dairy and livestock producers in SA and western Victoria.

"Tetraploid annual ryegrasses are high in water-soluble carbohydrates and therefore very palatable to ruminant livestock. When they are sown into Wimmera ryegrass pastures, ruminant livestock will usually graze all of the material. This effectively eliminates the need for heavy use of herbicides."

Darrel said other key advantages in using annual tetraploid varieties like Wrightson Seeds’ Winter Star II were their fast establishment, quick winter growth and much improved late season production.

"The late season production is a particular advantage," he said. "It can keep going well into December, providing quality feed for livestock throughout spring. It’s ideal for silage and late-finishing of livestock, and is suited to all soil types.

"Winter Star II is a late-flowering variety and if adequately grazed, it will die before it drops seed. If a spray is required, farmers can use a broad-spectrum herbicide which is less expensive than a grass-selective herbicide."

Livestock and dairy farmers in South Australia and western Victoria seeking more information about Winter Star II and other pasture varieties for their autumn renovation program can contact Darrel on 0427 150 278, visit www.wrightsonseeds.com.au or freecall 1800 619 910.

A free copy of Wrightson Seeds’ Pasture Solutions guide and additional pasture management information is also available at www.wrightsonseeds.com.au or by calling 1800 619 910.