Germinal's success as a leading breeder of top-quality grass and clover varieties is highlighted again by this week's publication of the Recommended Grass and Clover List (RGCL) for England and Wales.

The RGCL is an annual reference guide that reflects the highest quality grass and clover varieties, and over the last 35 years, Germinal has developed many high-ranking successful commercial varieties.

In the new 2023/2024 list, AberSevern is the latest of its high sugar grasses to gain recognition. Germinal's Aber High Sugar Grass (HSG) range has delivered results for farmers since its award-winning launch in 2000.

With a superior energy-protein balance, Aber HSG varieties are proven to reduce the production and release of ammonia, methane and nitrous oxide, created when protein is wasted. Less is excreted too, with trials showing urinary losses of nitrogen are up to 24% lower in dairy cows fed Aber HSG mixtures.

These climate smart grasses contain higher levels of water-soluble carbohydrates (sugars) compared to other ryegrasses and the readily available energy helps livestock convert more of the protein in forage into milk and meat – up to 6% more milk per cow and 20% higher live weight gains.

 Developing grass varieties that combine the benefits of sustainability and productivity is a very real measure of Germinal Horizon breeding team expertise and commitment to forage research. Translating research is vital for success in the challenging agricultural climate and food production landscape.

 "This latest RGCL List reinforces the position of the Aber HSG range as a technology tool for farmers," says Paul Billings, Managing Director, Germinal UK & Ireland.

"R&D drives the focus of our business for the future, we are leveraging our specialist knowledge of forage seed innovation to affect change.

"Each year we reach a new level in forage production as innovations in plant science allow pasture-based livestock systems to thrive even as environmental demands increase. Sustainable and profitable ruminant food production is the future."