What to overseed with? Look at species, ploidy, and variety...
Even though there is existing grass there, the new seed needs to get the best seed to soil contact possible. This requires sufficient open spaces for the seed to establish. Larger seeds, such as Tetraploids, tend to work best. Adding Clover to the mix, or on its own, is a good way to introduce it without a full reseed. This can be added in after a previous reseed if weed control has been a problem or waiting for the warmer soil temperatures in the spring. Herbs can be stitched into an existing ley to increase diversity, add drought tolerance, or even add in anthelmintic properties. Improves sward production and quality Equally as effective as autumn reseeding Allows time for the crop to establish before winter No heading in first season Grass can be more competitive with weeds Offers more flexibility as conditions improve and soils warm Establishing clover is more reliable with more favourable conditions Things to consider: The grass reseed might not have time to fully establish before needing to turn livestock out onto it. This risk can be reduced with overseeding the existing ley to boost production. As conditions improve in the spring, if the grass reseed has not taken, there is more chance of weeds taking over. However, there is always the second chance of an autumn sowing if things have not gone to plan! Spring seeding Advantages
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