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Holdfast GT Phalaris

Holdfast GT (Phalaris aquatica) was developed by the CSIRO and is a semi erect, winter active variety which forms thick, dense tufts of wide blue/green leaves that are very palatable to sheep and cattle.

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Description

Released by the CSIRO, Holdfast GT Phalaris is a grazing tolerant replacement for Holdfast. It has excellent winter production and persistence. Once established, it provides a productive, long term stand.

Holdfast GT (Phalaris aquatica) was developed by the CSIRO and is a semi erect, winter active variety which forms thick, dense tufts of wide blue/green leaves that are very palatable to sheep and cattle. It has a low level of summer dormancy, so it can respond and take advantage of any summer rainfall should it occur. Holdfast GT was selected as a superior replacement for Holdfast, due to its outstanding winter production and persistence over this variety. Holdfast GT has excellent seedling vigour, which makes it a variety that can establish quickly and easily.

This is very important for easier management of the stand, should there be a high level of weed competition. Once established, Holdfast GT will be able to handle periods of waterlogging and inundation. An advantage of Holdfast GT is its ability to grow in acidic conditions. It will also extend the range of pasture species to help combat soil degradation. Many farmers allow annual grasses to grow instead of establishing a perennial pasture based on Phalaris. Apart from being less productive, annual grasses play a role in the acidification cycle of soils. Nitrogen produced by pasture legumes usually grown with these grasses leaches down though the soil profile taking nutrients with it and leaving acidic elements behind.

The deep rooted nature of Holdfast GT Phalaris draws these nutrients back up to the top of the soil, where they can be used and either prevent / slow down the onset of acidification. Another major benefit from the plants deep roots system is that it makes Holdfast GT very persistent under drought conditions.

  • Grazing tolerant winter active phalaris bred by the CSIRO
  • Holdfast GT exhibits excellent seedling vigour to aid successful establishment
  • Selected for long term persistence under grazing (both set stocking and rotational grazing)
  • Increased productivity over the life of the stand
  •  Lower levels of stagger causing alkaloids
  • Its ability to grow in acidic conditions increases it’s area of adaptation
  • Minimum 500mm rainfall per annum unless irrigated

Variety Holdfast GT Phalaris
Rainfall 500-700mm+
Sowing rate 3-5 kg/ha
Sowing date March-May pending rainfall or August-September (spring sow only in higher rainfall/irrigated areas).
Soil type Most soil types