DLF announced on Apr. 20 new insights into the use of festulolium and white clover varieties to enhance forage systems, focusing on improved flexibility, stress tolerance, and feed value for producers.
The announcement is significant for farmers seeking resilient forage solutions that maintain both yield and quality. DLF’s research into advanced hybrids aims to address challenges in pasture management by providing adaptable options suited for various agricultural needs.
Festuloliums are presented as suitable choices for perennial pastures, hay fields, emergency forage situations, and rescue seedings where rapid establishment is required. The company introduced the Festulolium Diamond—a visual tool designed to help users select appropriate varieties based on genetic traits such as ryegrass or fescue influence, persistence, and adaptability. According to DLF, “Their adaptability makes them a valuable tool for producers looking to improve forage system resilience without sacrificing yield or quality.” The framework distinguishes between different genetic influences within festuloliums and assists with selection based on specific management goals.
White clover is also highlighted as an important component in spring forage plantings due to its contributions to dry matter production and overall sward quality. DLF said that selecting white clover with desirable characteristics—such as disease resistance, cold tolerance, stolon density, and regrowth capacity—is critical for long-term success. Leaf size plays a role in persistence: large-leaf types offer higher yields but lower longevity; intermediate types balance these factors; common types provide more persistent stands but less total production.
Featured white clover varieties from DLF include Companion Ladino (noted for disease tolerance), Heslop Ladino Clover (bred for vigor), Klondike Ladino Clover (recognized for winter hardiness), and Riesling Intermediate Clover (combining ladino-like yield with better persistence). These options are developed through extensive research facilities such as the seed enhancement center in Albany, Oregon, along with Product Knowledge Centers in Philomath, Oregon and Port Hope, Ontario according to the official website.
DLF supports community efforts by donating seeds used in native habitat restoration projects according to the official website. The company employs over 2,200 people at 65 locations worldwide according to the official website, maintains diverse genetic pools including elite alfalfa products built on a century-long focus on seed quality according to the official website, extends operations across North America while exporting seeds globally according to the official website, and emphasizes innovation alongside sustainability throughout its development process according to the official website.
By developing high-quality seeds tailored for various climates and applications—including turf—the organization aims “to advance science into growth through the development, production and distribution of high-quality seeds focused on innovation and sustainability,” according to its statement. As agricultural practices continue evolving amid environmental pressures,the organization says it will maintain support initiatives drawing upon global expertise.
