PERENNIAL RYEGRASS CULTIVARS

Abstract

In the period 1973-77, 71% of pasture grasses certified in New Zealand were perennial ryegrasses. Data from one of the major seed merchants showed that during 1977-8 Ruanui comprised over 70% of the retail sales of perennial ryegrass cultivars, while Nui (17%) and Ariki (10%) were also important. Comparative production data between the New Zealand bred cultivars, some overseas cultivars and some uncertified local populations are presented. Overseas cultivars are generally inferior to New Zealand cultivars but some local populations are very promising in a number of environments. The newer cultivars Nui and Ariki often show a greater yield response to longer intervals between defoliations and increased nitrogen supply than Ruanui.