Overseeding presents a real opportunity to restore production in tired or damaged swards. It is also a way to get a rebound in forage yield in a low-cost, energy saving and climate-friendly way. The drilling technique saves money for expensive fuel and the loss of CO2 from the seed bed preparation is limited to a minimum.
When the sward becomes open allowing weeds and unsown species to invade, overseeding will help to restore and maintain productivity by increasing both yield and quality. The loss of 1 tonne DM/ha @ 11MJ/ kg DM equates to 11000 MJ. This is the difference between success and failure in forage production!
No matter how good the grassland management is, there will be a decline in output and an increase in weed species present over time. From year one a yield decrease of 8-10% is normal, which unfortunately is also associated with a decline in forage quality. Without any doubt sward renewal is a golden option. In many cases however, it is not practical nor economical to establish swards with a full reseed. Instead, an overseeding can successfully improve both yield and quality of the grassland at 25% of the normal cost.
What yield improvements can be achieved?
Overseeding increases not only forage yields but also the forage quality. Such improvement translates into increased milk- and meat yields without extra need for expensive, imported feed.
Advantages of overseeding grassland are:
Increased production and extended grazing season
Improved animal performance, profitability and digestibility
Depression of non-productive grasses and broad-leaved weeds
Introduction of newer improved varieties and better disease resistance
The inclusion of clover will improve protein content, and potentially save on purchased nitrogen
Read more about yield improvements and top tips for overseeding in the latest Insiders Turf & Forage article in European Seed
Learn more about overseeding methods video below