Maximise Pasture Productivity with Smart Sowing
Published on 27 February 2025
Under-sowing involves drilling seed into existing pasture, typically in autumn. Maintaining pasture density through winter is essential for several reasons. Most importantly, higher density leads to increased yield. If plant numbers decline, your pasture is compromised in two ways: reduced immediate yield and diminished ability to recover after subsequent grazing’s.
Additionally, good pasture density helps prevent soil exposure, which can lead to soil and phosphate loss, while also reducing the ability of the pasture to better capture nitrogen deposits.
Strategies for Success
1-Assess Your Pastures
If your paddocks lack sufficient plant numbers, under-sowing is an effective solution. It’s quick, cost-efficient, and doesn’t result in lost production.
- If plant numbers are above 60% but need improvement, under-sowing can significantly boost yield.
- If plant numbers are below 60%, a full re-grassing program may be a better long-term solution.
2-Timing Matters
The best results come from sowing before competition from weeds become a problem. Ideal under-sowing windows are:
- South Island: March–April
- North Island: April–May
The RGT Indulgence Advantage
Under-sowing with RGT Indulgence diploid Italian ryegrass offers multiple benefits:
- Faster Establishment: Italian ryegrass germinates and establishes more quickly than perennial ryegrass, especially in cooling soils.
- Increased Density: Diploid ryegrasses have a higher tillering capacity, creating denser swards than tetraploids. Denser pasture leads to better yield, reduced weed competition, and less exposed soil.
- Cost Efficiency: More seeds per hectare mean lower sowing costs compared to tetraploids.
Recommended Sowing Rates:
- Thin pastures: 10–15 kg/ha
- Severely damaged pastures: 15–20 kg/ha
By strategically under-sowing with RGT Indulgence, you can enhance pasture productivity, improve resilience, and maximise your returns.
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