Cultivation

Silage and Haylage — Hybrid Ryegrass

Lolium x hybridum Hausskn.

Hybrid ryegrass is a valuable crop for multi-cut systems due to its combination of high yield and excellent fermentation quality of the raw material. The optimal harvest period occurs at the early heading stage.

In the reference 32 varieties crop Hybrid ryegrass, where this is mentioned in the description.

The origin of hybrid ryegrass as a cross between Italian and perennial ryegrass determines its key properties for haylage production. The crop inherited intensive regrowth rates and high green mass yield from Italian ryegrass, and improved longevity and the ability to form dense basal foliage, which enhances the structure of the harvested material, from perennial ryegrass.

The quality of hybrid ryegrass forage is characterized by high dry matter digestibility and a significant sugar content, which ensures efficient fermentation. The optimal time for mowing is considered to be when 25–50% of the plants are in the early heading stage, as further development leads to a decrease in nutritional value due to the accumulation of fiber in the stems.

General information about the subject — on the page Silage and haylage.

Sources8

Varieties of Hybrid ryegrass mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.