Start Date
1-16-2016 11:00 AM
Description
Over the past few decades forage producers have seen several major changes in varieties of tall fescue. From the days of Kentucky 31 being the predominant variety, the first change was the development of endophyte-free tall fescue varieties. For many growers, these have been useful additions, especially when coupled with rotational grazing to reduce the risks of overgrazing, and practices that eradicate existing stands of KY-31 and preventing the reintroduction of endophyte infected KY-31. However, these endophyte-free varieties often lacked the persistence of Kentucky 31 and disappointed many early adopters. In the 30 years since the first generation of endophyte-free varieties, plant breeders have made incredible progress in developing additional tall fescue varieties with the latest breakthrough the development and release of novel endophyte varieties.
Included in
Novel Endophyte Varities: What's the Difference?
Over the past few decades forage producers have seen several major changes in varieties of tall fescue. From the days of Kentucky 31 being the predominant variety, the first change was the development of endophyte-free tall fescue varieties. For many growers, these have been useful additions, especially when coupled with rotational grazing to reduce the risks of overgrazing, and practices that eradicate existing stands of KY-31 and preventing the reintroduction of endophyte infected KY-31. However, these endophyte-free varieties often lacked the persistence of Kentucky 31 and disappointed many early adopters. In the 30 years since the first generation of endophyte-free varieties, plant breeders have made incredible progress in developing additional tall fescue varieties with the latest breakthrough the development and release of novel endophyte varieties.