Cocksfoot is a very persistent grass. It grows relatively slowly in the sowing year, but in the second and subsequent years it is very vigorous. Growth starts early in the spring and regrowth after cutting consists mostly of leafy palatable shoots. Growth in summertime is good.
Cocksfoot is grown under varying climatic conditions. It is winter hardy and drought tolerant. Early types are mainly used for conservation. Late types are excellent for grazing.
DLF has developed late cocksfoot grass varieties which combine the ability to produce stalk-free feed under dry conditions with less aggressiveness towards other grasses.
DLF breeding is directed towards developing types with
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good yields in summer and autumn
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improved digestibility and taste
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resistance to cold
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dense shoots and spreading types suitable for grazing
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upright types suitable for harvesting
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disease resistance (Puccinia striiformis, Rhynchosporium, mildew and Mastigosporium)