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Words by Anita Body

Ruralco’s Pasture Packs have been designed to make selecting new pasture a simple process, with the added assurance only proven premium seeds are selected to produce ultimate results and ultimate pastures.

First introduced around 10 years ago, the pasture packs were initially created to meet a need to provide a product which helped farmers who needed something pre-mixed and ready to go at short notice.

“We are always able to customise mixes to meet farmers’ individual needs, and this hasn’t changed. What we have found is that our pasture packs also have a definite place in the marketplace,” says Ruralco Seed Sales Manager, John Scott.

Over the years the pasture pack offerings have evolved with both the T-ploid and Dip Packs remaining the mainstays, with both the Endura Dryland Pack and the Renovator Pack also joining the fold more latterly.

“Initially the pasture packs were there for those who got caught short, and while we can still meet that need, we are finding people are choosing the packs because they are specialised, and they deliver quality performance in a variety of situations - especially the T-ploid and Dip Packs which have become products of choice for many farmers,” says John. The four packs offer a solution for most pasture options – from high and medium production right through to dryland blocks. “There’s a pack for every situation. All are per hectare packs, and they are versatile and ready to go.”

The T-ploid Pack is ideal for maximum performance and for high yields. “It’s the top of the line,” he says. “The DairyNZ Forage Value Index ranks Base AR37 Perennial Ryegrass as a top ranking 5-star performer. The T-ploid pack also boasts superior year-round performance with excellent cool season yields and is excellent for dairy and intensive sheep and beef operations. It’s best for dairy and rotational grazing.”

If you are looking for a reliable performer, which is high yielding with strong year-round production, then the Dip Pack ticks all the boxes. “It’s a good producer, good for set stocking and best for more general use. It has excellent feed quality and is suitable for sheep, beef, dairy, and deer,” says John.

Also on offer are the Endura Dryland and the Renovator Packs.

The Endura Dryland Pack is the ultimate dryland performer. It is very versatile and good for lifestyle blocks right through to a variety of dryland farming operations. “It’s able to cope with non-irrigated tougher conditions, especially in hilly conditions, and areas within North and South Canterbury.”

“Over the last four years we noticed there was an opportunity for a product which could be used to patch up parts of a paddock, especially when you’re trying to make that paddock last another couple of years. That’s where the Renovator Pack comes into its own.” Designed specifically for fixing up high traffic areas like yards, gateways and laneways, or pugging damage, the Renovator pack contains a diploid ryegrass and white clover mix perfect for renovating pasture.

“It’s always a good idea to place orders early, especially if you know what you want, to beat any unforeseen supply issues to ensure you secure the right pack for your needs.” says John. Your Ruralco representative or the Seed Team can help answer any questions around pricing and seed supply for the coming season and the Pasture Packs are available online and through all of the Ruralco Stores.

More information about Pasture Packs.