IDIPLOID v TETRAPLOID RYEGRASSES
A normal (diploid) ryegrass has 14 chromosomes in each cell. A chromosome is the part of the cell that carries all the genetic information about the organism. By treating the cells in tissue culture with a natural chemical extracted from the autumn crocus (called colchicine) the number of chromosomes is doubled to 28. This effectively doubles the size of the cells (increased sugary contents) creating a tetraploid.
PALATABILITY & DIGESTABILITY
Livestock find the wide leaves and larger cell content (containing high concentrations of sugars) of tetraploids very palatable. This leads to higher intake resulting in more meat or milk. Overall, the digestibility of tetraploids is much better than most diploids meaning that more of the ingested material is converted to improve animal performance.
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
The deep root systems, larger cells and wider leaves all combine to ensure greater resistance to drought than most diploid varieties. The larger seeds of tetraploids also mean that if a drought occurs during the establishment phase, the seeds carry greater water and nutrient resources than diploids, thus increasing their chances of survival.
RAPID ESTABLISHMENT
On average tetraploid ryegrass seeds are 30-50% larger than diploid ryegrass. This results in improved seedling vigour, increased competitiveness (especially useful when over-seeding) and faster establishment, which can lead to earlier utilisation.
HIGHER SUMMER PRODUCTION
The deep, fibrous root system of tetraploid ryegrass enables them to find water and nutrients that lie deep in the soil, prolonging production during the drier summer months.
PERSISTENCY AND WINTER HARDINESS
Newer varieties of tetraploids exhibit much better winter hardiness ratings than previously, and recently bred tetraploids are much improved in ground cover. Together these characteristics substantially increase the longevity of a sward
CUTTING
The sturdy tetraploids stand-up well to the cutter-bar. The higher sugar content provides food for the bacteria in the clamp and aid the fermentation process to produce high quality silage.
OVERSEEDING AND PASTURE RENOVATION
The larger seeded and more vigorous tetraploids have that competitive edge when it comes to pasture renovation. Rapid establishment and the ability to out-compete weed grasses in the existing sward is vital. So always specify use tetraploids when renovating pastures.
CALL or EMAIL now!! idealseed.co.uk
Billy Nimmo
M.D – Idealseed
Experto crede
I’m Billy Nimmo, founder of Idealseed. For over 30 years, I have worked in the grass and wildflower seed industry in the UK. My journey started with a vision to make Idealseed a leader in quality and innovation. We achieved this goal through hard work and embracing new technology.
My company is independent and licensed by the Scottish Government and The British Society of Plant Breeders. This shows our commitment to high standards and fair prices. We blend tradition with innovation to produce top-quality seeds. Our seeds thrive in tough environments, proving our success.
I lead a team at Idealseed that shares my passion for excellence. With their support, we have become known across Europe as a leading provider of grass and wildflower seeds. We focus on quality first and are always looking for ways to improve. Our approach combines traditional methods with modern science.
Over these years, I’ve guided Idealseed with clear values: quality, innovation, and sustainability. Our work helps lands flourish across the UK. With every seed mix we create, we aim for excellence. This dedication has shaped our company’s journey from an ambitious idea to a trusted industry leader.
