Diploids and tetraploids

Diploid

Diploid ryegrasses have two sets of chromosomes per cell, compared to a tetraploid which has four.

Diploids combine yield and robustness, ensuring that even in less than ideal conditions, they will deliver for your stock.

The cells within a diploid ryegrass are smaller than in tetraploids resulting in a lower ratio of water soluble carbohydrates (sugar) compared to fibre.

Dependable diploids:

Densely tillered
Competitive with weeds
Ideal for grass to grass situations
Cope with lower fertility
Can handle wetter environments
Can be set stocked or rotationally grazed

Tetraploid

A tetraploid plant has four sets of chromosomes per cell (a diploid has two sets) which simply means tetraploid ryegrasses are more palatable for your livestock. Tasty tetraploid ryegrasses are just what your stock ordered. Stock prefer tetraploids over diploids if they have a choice and tetraploids are more quickly and completely eaten by livestock.

Tasty tetraploids:

Fast to establish
Extremely tasty and palatable
Excellent pasture utilisation
Very high quality
Higher animal dry matter intakes
Better animal performance
Great for silage and hay quality
Clover friendly

Remember that tetraploids:

Need a higher sowing rate – the seed is larger than diploids
Should be rotationally grazed or set stocked for short periods only
Are easily overgrazed, watch post-grazing residuals
Should be sown with clovers or herbs
Tetraploids are darker green. Don’t rely on colour change before applying Nitrogen