Sikem, with the highest RFV, had the second lowest yield. The perennial Aubisque had the second highest RFV but the lowest yield. Tetrone, the third variety included in the Tetrabana blend, had lower forage availability than the others but had one of the highest RFVs, equivalent to the perennial variety. Graziers need to not only carefully consider ryegrass varieties but also put extra effort into its establishment. We ve only scratched the surface of annual ryegrass establishment methods in this study, says Fredericks.
Research is underway to determine which varieties establish best.
Despite its limitations in terms of establishment and yield, annual ryegrass can make a contribution to pasture quality. Undersander notes, Annual ryegrass seed tends to be inexpensive enough that graziers can give it a try to boost pasture quality, but they shouldn t expect it to increase pasture yield. Contact CIAS for more information on this research. This is a summary of CIAS-sponsored research on sustainable, integrated, and alternative agricultural systems. It is part of an ongoing series.