With input costs increasing, it is easy to forget about grassland. However, it is a vital crop that still requires management. After a what feels like long winter, some of the existing swards might be looking a little worse for wear and need revitalizing. 

To overseed or reseed?

Overseeding is often seen as a short-term option for that quick boost, whereas a full reseed can be seen as more costly but can achieve good results when required. The table below illustrates the key benefits to either choice.

Now might be the ideal time to reseed, and here’s why:

Things to consider:

The grass reseed might not have time to fully establish before needing to turn livestock out onto it. This risk can be reduced with overseeding the existing ley to boost production.

As conditions improve in the spring, if the grass reseed hasn’t taken, there is more chance of weeds taking over. And there is always the second chance of an autumn sowing if things haven’t gone to plan!

However:

• Timing is important! Wait until the soil is warm enough for grass growth – at 5 degrees  (8 for clover). Avoid overseeding at times of peak growth for existing grass.

• Make sure soil conditions are good before proceeding.

• Choose varieties suited to the chosen option – use species that will establish rapidly and won’t be out competed by the existing ley if overseeding, i.e. IRG, Hybrid or Tetraploid PRG. Species such as Timothy will be slower to establish and less competitive but are beneficial late on in the season when other species growth slows, making them more suitable for a reseed.

Adding in Clover

Adding clover into an existing ley or as part of a complete reseed has may benefits. From a forage perspective, clover is a good source of protein to the feed, while also boosting palatability. As well as this, clover has the ability to fix Nitrogen. This is useful in increasing yield in low input systems and increasing N uptake of the companion grasses. Due to the nature of the clover, it does also offer some drought resistance in hot years, with its extensive root network. Clovers are best sown in early spring or if overseeding, post first cut of silage as there will be less competition from the more dominant grass species. Or chose a mix with clover in for a complete reseed.

Bartholomews mixes

Overseeding:

Bartholomews offer a mix designed specifically to be used as an overseeding/renovation mix. This mix is comprise Hybrid and Perennial ryegrasses, which will be quick to establish and boost longevity of the sward. Or look for any mix with high tetraploid content in, and so at a reduced rated of 10kg/acre. The use of HRG (hybrid ryegrass) and Tetraploid PRG (perennial ryegrass) give mixes the best chance of competing against the existing sward. 

Reseeding

We have a complete range, from short term to long term, with or without clover, or suitable for grazing, cutting or both. Our booklet has full details of our range of mixes as well as out handy flow chart to made decisions easy!