‘It’s the best wicket the ground has...In the seedbed – Agrosil® LR Once established – G7...

germinalamenity.com

‘It’s the best wicket the ground has ever had.’

Amenity 2021Amenity Grass Seed, Fertiliser and Wild Flora Products

Nick MarshGreenside Up GrassEast Molesey Cricket Club

Introduction 01 – 02

Research and Development 03

Golf mixtures 04 – 23 – Grade ‘A’ golf mixtures 05 – 12 – Bentgrasses 13 – 17 – Getting the most from overseeding with bentgrasses 18 – 19 – Preventative overseeding 20 - 21 –Golfwildflowermixtures 22–23

Sport mixtures 24 – 31

What’s in your bag of grass seed? 32– 33

Landscaping mixtures 34 – 39

Wildfloramixtures 40–50 – Maintenance guide 43 – Regional Environmental (RE) Mixtures 44 – 45

– Urban Meadow (General landscaping) 46 – 50

Fertilisers 51 – 68 – Slow release fertilisers 52 – 53 – Specialist fertilisers 54 – 57 – Nutritional strategies for disease prevention 58 – Liquid fertilisers 59 – 61 – Seaweed based feeds 62 – Compound granular fertilisers 63 – 67

Spreader table 68

Territory map 69

Contents

Introduction 01

But, just like the rest of the world, we’ve learned to adapt to the new ways of working and have remained on hand throughout the various periods of lockdownandsocialdistancingtoofferexpertseeding,overseedingandgeneral landscaping advice via various online communication channels.

Like you though, we’re eagerly hoping for a much more normal year in 2021: a year in which our team of dedicated and experienced technical sales representatives will continue to provide sound, reliable and trusted advice and guidance on a face-to-face basis to ensure you can get the most from your sports pitch, golf course, cricket wicket, tennis court, bowling green or landscaping project.

The best seeds and seed mixtures

Aswellaspridingourselvesonbeingtheamenitygrassandwildflowersexperts, we are also exceptionally proud of our expanding portfolio of high-quality seeds and seed mixtures.

Our core range of grass seeds includes products for every aspect of the amenity sports sector (from specialist golf mixtures to bespoke products for cricket, football and rugby pitches) as well as a wide selection of products forgeneralandspecialisedlandscapingprojects,finelawnmaintenance,wildflowermeadowsandenvironmentallyenhancedgreenspaces.

The year of the creeping bentgrass

Thisyearoursector-leadingrangeofgolf-specificbentgrasseshasbeenbolstered by the addition of one of the best-performing US varieties, Tour Pro (GDE).

Selected for its improved resistance to Dollar Spot and Pink Snow Mould, Tour Pro (GDE) has excelled in the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) in the United States and has recently achieved the highest mean score for creeping bentgrasses as a new cultivar on table G1 of the 2021 BSPB list: Tour Pro (GDE) excels in terms of Visual Merit (7.0), boasts the joint highest score for Shoot Density (6.6) and shares the top honours in terms of Fineness of Leaf (6.7).

In the US, Tour Pro (GDE) has been ranked as the number one variety for Drought Stress and number two for Wear Stress and Winter Colour and has beeninthetopfiveofallcommerciallyavailablebentgrasses.

Tour Pro (GDE) is available exclusively in the UK from Germinal and features inournewgolfgreenspecificseedmixture,TourLeader,whereitsdroughttolerance and wear resistance combine with the cold weather tolerance and sustainability of 007 DSB to create a seed mixture which easily outcompetes Poa annua and which has enough genetic diversity to ensure golf greens remain in good condition all year round irrespective of what the weather might throw at them.

Our recent addition to our browntop bentgrass portfolio, Musket, has also gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months: introduced by Germinal to the UK market in 2020, it has formally been added to the BSPB’s Table G1 as a new cultivar this year. With a visual merit score of 7.0, shoot

Expert advice and the very best amenity cultivars

With the stresses and strains of 2020 impacting the lives and livelihoods of so many within the sports turf, amenity and landscaping sectors, it has been difficult for us to get out and about during large parts of the year and we’ve missed being able to talk, in-person, with our customers.

Germinal technical support

Our team of dedicated technical sales representatives has vast experience of amenity grass seed and fertilisers for golf, sports and landscaping,andiscommittedtohelpingyoufindthecorrectgrassseeds and fertilisers to improve your facility.

FACTS* qualified

Having chosen the correct grass mixtures, why not let one of our qualifiedadviserswriteupafertiliserplantohelpyougainthebestperformance from your sward throughout the coming year?

For Technical Sales Representatives’ details, please see page 69.

*FertiliserAdvisersCertificationandTrainingScheme

Germinal is the largest privately owned seed company in the UK and the only company selling British-bred turf grasses direct to the end user.

density6.6,finenessofleaf6.7,andwinterandsummergreennessscoresof 5.9 and 5.8 respectively, Musket has an overall rating of 6.8 which makes it the ideal partner for our other browntop bents, notably UK-bred favourites AberRegal and AberRoyal.

Wildflower updates

We’vealsoupdatedourrangeofwildflowermixturesfor2021.Inadditiontoourexistingrangeof100%nativeRegionalEnvironmental(RE)wildflowermixtures, we’ve improved the environmental, ecological and aesthetic benefitsofourGeneralLandscapingWildFlora(WFandWFG)rangesbyincorporating a selection of pollinator-friendly non-native and ‘garden’ varieties: research carried out by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has shown that the inclusion of these non-native species can lengthen the floweringseasonatthebeginningandendoftheyear,therebyprovidinga more abundant and longer-lasting source of nectar and pollen to boost populationsofpollinatinginsectssuchasbees,butterfliesandhoverflies.The addition of these species also produces a more aesthetically appealing sward thanks to their wider palette of longer-lasting colours. For more information refer to.

Please get in touch

Our direct sales model ensures all of the products mentioned above remain available at sensible prices so that your budget can go that bit further.

Formoreinformationaboutanyofourproducts,orifyouneedspecificadvice for a current or future project, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to hear from you and genuinely enjoy the challenge of helping make your green space work harder.

Richard Brown National Amenity Sales Manager Germinal GB

Introduction02

Research & Development

Research & Development

* IBERS – The Institute of Biological Environmental and Rural Sciences is the UK’s major centre for independent research into the physiological mechanisms involved in grass plant nutrition, quality and stress resistance.

Research and Development• Germinal funds the amenity seed breeding programme at IBERS*;

working together we form the UK’s largest grass breeding programme

• Our relationship with internationally renowned amenity grass breeders ensures exclusive access to the best cultivars from Europe and the USA

• This commitment to breeding ensures a constant improvement in our varietal portfolio

Products• We produce the major portion of our grass seed in the UK; this

ensures that your purchase helps to support the UK economy

• TheGrade‘A’rangeisthefirstwordinqualitywithregardstocultivar,purity and germination

• Thecomprehensiverangeoffersamixturetosuiteverygreenkeeper,groundsman, landscape contractor or landscape architect

• Mixtures include exclusive top rated cultivars, unavailable through any other seed suppliers, many of which are UK bred for UK conditions Look out for the ‘ABER’ varieties in our mixtures

Service• Simplify your life. Buy direct from your visiting Technical SalesRepresentative,throughourLincolnoffice,oronline at germinalamenity.com

• Orders of stock items placed before midday will be delivered the next working day

• Talk directly to one of our Technical Sales Representatives for firsthandexpertadvice

03

Golfmixtures

04

05

“Fast establishing, fine leaved and durable. Knits in with the fescue on my tees perfectly”

Andy BarberCourse managerRoyal Winchester Golf Club

Ultrafine mixtures for tees, fairways and greens approaches

Cabrio, Germinal’s ultrafine perennial ryegrass, tops the BSPB’s Series L Table 1 (mown at 10 - 15mm) for perennial ryegrasses and, crucially, is the No.1 variety for fineness of leaf thanks to a score of 8.6, a score which is still half a point clear of its nearest rivals at 8.1. Furthermore, Cabrio retains its fineness of leaf when mown at 4 - 7mm as its score of 8.4 on table G4 demonstrates. This makes Cabrio perfect for use on high quality tees where its ultrafine leaf and natural mid-green colour makes it perfect for blending in with fescues.Cabrio also boasts good scores for shoot density (7.7), visual merit (7.8), slow regrowth habit (7.1) and cleanness of cut (7.1) therefore making it suitable for use on fescue-based tees and greens surrounds, and even on links courses, where extra wear tolerance is required.

Cabrio is also recommended for use on tennis courts and cricket squares where it is ideal for repairing baselines and wicket ends.

Cabrio is exclusively available in our A5 Ultrafine Cricket, Tennis and Tees, A8 Ultrafine Ryegrass, A10 Golf Tees and Divot Repairs, and A28 Ultrafine Ryegolf mixtures. Its inclusion in all four of these mixtures enhances sward density, wear tolerance and repair capability.

Golf mixtures

CABRIO produces an exceptionally fine playing surface for all ball games!

A10Golf Tees and Divot Repairs35% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)25% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)10% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)25% CABRIO* (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)2.5% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)

• For rapid repair• Wear tolerant• Quick recovery from

divot scars• Contains Cabrio, the most

fine leaved Perennial ryegrass currently available

A10 produces a high density sward with excellent binding capacity and recovery rate. This mixture also provides dark green winter colour and disease resistance. Includes Cabrio - the highest rated variety for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 6 - 7mmShade Option: SUPREME Poa supina can be added at 2.5% for enhanced shade toleranceNo-Rye Option: The perennial ryegrass can be removed from this mixture to create a fescue based option (A23)Fertiliser Recommendation: Once established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)G13 ProteKt (winter)

Golf mixtures

Grade ‘A’ golf mixtures

A11Golf Greens40% BOGART (Chewings Fescue)40% BEUDIN (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)10% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)10% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)

• Uniform putting surface• Dense sward• Tolerates close mowing• Includes UK bred grasses

for UK conditions

All four cultivars offer unrivalled summer and winter greenness as well as the prerequisite high shoot density and disease resistance. Includes AberRoyal & AberRegal UK bred cultivars for UK conditions.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – G7 Bio BuilderVitanica RZ

* The highest rated variety for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.

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A5UltrafineCricket, Tennis and Tees50% ESCAPADE (Perennial Ryegrass)50% CABRIO (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)

• Quick to establish• Hard wearing• High density ground

cover• Superior rooting• Contains Cabrio, the most

fine leaved Perennial ryegrass currently available

The Original and still the best, A5 is unsurpassed for fineness of leaf and overall quality of varieties. Sporting a fineness of leaf score of 8.6 when mown down to 10 -15mm, Escapade is the perfect companion for Cabrio which tops the 2021 BSPB list for summer sports and has the best fineness of leaf of any ryegrass when mown down to 10 - 15mm and 4 - 7mm respectively. Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha) Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha) Cutting Height: Down to 4mm

A8UltrafineRyegreens45% CABRIO (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)45% ESCAPADE (Perennial Ryegrass)10% 007 (Creeping Bentgrass) Cabrio has the highest score for fineness of leaf (8.4) under close mown conditions, 4 - 7mm on the current BSPB list• Rapid germination and

establishment in cooler conditions

• Disease resistance due to intense breeding and trials

• 007 adds density to UFR bunch growth habit

• Excellent winter colour• Also an option for tees

and collars An outstanding combination of two of the most popular species for modern golf renovations. Blending top performing Ultrafine Ryegrass cultivars Cabrio and Escapade with the world famous Superbent 007, A8 is the contemporary choice for renovating your greens to cope with the current demand pressures.

Sowing Rate: 20g/m2 (2000kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 10 - 15g/m2 (100 - 150kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed –Agrosil® LROnce established – Easygreen Mini GL6

A12Golf Fairways30% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)25% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)15% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)15% ESCAPADE (Perennial Ryegrass)10% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)2.5% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)

• Quick establishment• Good recovery

from divots• Low maintenance• Clean cutting

A12 provides rapid repair of divot scarring. Once fully established, the sward will withstand drought conditions on sandy soils. Escapade provides slow re-growth without compromising shoot density, to produce a low maintenance fairway.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 15mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – NovaTec N-Max orNovaTec Premium

A13Golf Roughs and Habitat Areas62.5% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)10% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)25% JOANNA (Chewings Fescue)2.5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

Golf roughs add to the challenge of any course and provide an important, diverse grassland habitat for wildlife. The combination of fescues found in A13 will adapt to a variety of maintenance programmes.

Sowing Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: As desired

A28UltrafineRyegolf45% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)30% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)25% CABRIO (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)

• A versatile golf mixture• Tolerant of close mowing• Hard wearing• Cabrio has highest

score for fineness of leaf (8.4) under close mown conditions, 4 - 7mm on current BSPB list.

A28 is suitable for golf courses which suffer from wear and tear due to intensive use where a traditional mixture will not perform. The use of Cabrio provides outstanding wear characteristics associated with perennial ryegrass whilst being very compatible with the fescue element of the mixture.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 6 - 7mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A27Golf All Fescue25% HUMBOLDT (Chewings Fescue)25% BOGART (Chewings Fescue)25% BEUDIN (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)25% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)

• Versatile mixture• Tolerant of close mowing• Wear resistant

A27 is suitable for overseeding of fairways and greens where improved sward density, drought tolerance and disease resistance are required. This adaptable mixture is ideal for those courses wishing to maintain their fescue content or repair damaged areas through divoting or disease. Also available as 100% slender creeping red fescue on request.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 5mm for greens, 15mm for fairways and teesBentgrass Option: Any of our bentgrasses can be added to the above on requestFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – According to use * The highest rated variety

for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.

Golf mixtures 07

A28 establishing well in oversown fairways at Hadley Wood G.C., Barnet after the drought of 2018.

Golf mixtures08

We’ve used Germinal’s standard A10 mixture successfullyforthepastfiveorsixyearsandithasbeenagoodfitwiththeexistingspecieson our fairways and tees: its combination of fescues, ryegrasses and bentgrasses blends inwell,withCabrioaddingextrafinenessofleaf and wear tolerance.

Wes Saunders Course Manager, Dunblane New Golf Club

Golf mixtures 09

A32Ecological Roughs Mixture65% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)5% Sweet Vernal Grass7.5% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent) 7.5% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent) 15% Crested Dogstail

A32 provides the perfect buffer between fairways and more off-line areas of play. It creates an easy to manage sward which can be maintained via infrequent cutting to create a thin, semi-rough environment that enables rapid ball retrieval and onward play. It also creates an ecologically valuable, natural grassland habitat, acting as an extension to wildlife-rich areas of thicker rough.Additional species available on request – Tufted hair grass, Wavy hair grass, Quaking grass, Small Leaf Timothy, Golden oat grass.

Sowing Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: As desired

A31Supreme Tees85% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)15% SUPREME (Poa supina)

• Unrivalled shade tolerance

• Disease resistance• Uniform neat cleanness

of cut• Exceptionally

hardwearing with good recovery

The perfect mixture for shaded golf tees or any extremely shaded areas on golf courses or in sports stadia. Includes Supreme Poa supina, this mixture is extremely shade tolerant and offers exceptional wear tolerance once established. Supreme is a new improved Poa supina with a darker colour than older varieties. Being 100% Poa species means the mixture offers above average disease resistance and an unrivalled cleanness of cut, giving a uniform hardwearing and disease free sward even in the most shady areas.

Sowing Rate: 10 -15g/m2 (100 -150kg/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A29With Ryegrass Divot Mix40% CADIX (Perennial Ryegrass)35% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)25% JOANNA (Chewings Fescue)

• Quick to germinate• Cost effective• Multi-purpose

A29 is a multi use divot mixture ideal for repairing worn areas, divot and pitch marks on golf courses, sports grounds and general municipal areas.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Fertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G13 ProteKt (winter)G14 Alleviate Fe

“Grasses are vitally important from an ecological viewpoint. They are the principal components of all grassland habitats, withdifferentspeciesproviding unique diversity within machair to the north, and chalk downlands in the south. These habitats provide food, shelter and vantage for a range of wildlife communities and are particularly valuable for molluscs through to invertebrates, bryophytes and small mammals. Often unappreciated are the secondarybenefitsof grasslands, which, by their presence, provide important food resources for bats and birds.”Ecology and Environment Consultant Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI)

12 Golf mixtures

Golf mixtures

Creeping BentTour Pro (GDE) is the latest creeping bentgrass to join Germinal’s excellent bentgrass portfolio: having excelled in the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) in the United States, this top-performing variety has recently achieved the highest mean score for creeping bentgrasses as a new cultivar on table G1 of the 2021 BSPB list. It has also been awarded the highest score for shoot density and visual merit for a creeping bentgrass, making it a hardworking and visually pleasing variety. Tour Pro (GDE) was selected as the next creeping variety to join our bentgrass portfolio thanks to its low input requirement – a factor which enables greenkeepers on modern courses to outcompete Poa annua by implementing management strategies which place the latter under stress and allow the natural attributes of Tour Pro (GDE) to gain the upperhand and dominate the sward.

Tour Pro (GDE) is available exclusively in the UK from Germinal. For more information see overleaf.

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Golf mixtures

WhenGerminalfirstintroduced007DSBtotheUK in 2016 it is fair to say we came up against a significantamountofopposition:notspecificallytothe variety itself, but to the preconceived ideas of many greenkeepers and agronomists who believed that all creeping bentgrasses required high inputs (especially in terms of N and water) to make them work. Whilst that might have been true of older varieties, modern creeping bentgrasses have improved tremendously in terms of their ability to thrive under modern management programmes. Despite this, many within the industry remained convinced that introducing a creeping bentgrass would require additional budget in terms of inputs and man hours, and that any additional nutrients would have the detrimental knock-on effect of feeding Poa annua and encouraging it to proliferate.

Over the last few years however, the success and easy management of 007 DSB has proven that modern creeping bentgrasses no longer conform to this out-of-date stereotype, with many early adopters in the UK reporting that 007 DSB has a much lower requirement for nitrogen and water than they initially anticipated. This has been supported by subsequent trial work which has shown that an acceptable turf quality can be maintained from just 50kg of N per hectare – as such making it more than suited to the typical management regimes being used by UK greenkeepers who can take full advantage of 007 DSB’s high shoot density without having to worry about it playing into the hands of Poa annua.

So how do we top the best? Well, add the new top-rated creeping bentgrass to our portfolio of course! Tour Pro (GDE) shares all the characteristics of 007 DSB (excellent resistance to Microdochium patch and Dollar spot) but is even more tolerant of drought conditions – a genuinely valuable attribute which gives greenkeepers the opportunity to sustain quality putting surfaces whilst placing Poa annua under significant stress.

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Variety Matters: Leading Creeping Bent for the UK

Germinal Bents

007 DSB Creeping Bent• Widely adaptable to warm summers

and cold winters• Very salt tolerant – trials show it to be

more salt tolerant than Seaside II• Very good cool weather colour

retention – no purple colour during the winter months

• High disease resistance especially against Anthracnose, Fusarium and Snow Mould

• Dollar Spot resistance

007 DSB is arguably the best-of-the best: bred in the US using 24 parent plants, it exhibits an extremely prostrate growth habit, high shoot density and good wear tolerance in a wide range of conditions including cold climates and drought susceptible regions. 007 DSB has won plaudits wherever it has been used including at Ryder Cup and US Open courses and at the PGA Masters at Wentworth.

Sowing Rate: 8 - 12g/m2 (80 to 120kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 5 - 8g/m2 (50 - 80kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mm

Tour Leader Creeping Bent Blend50% 007 DSB (Creeping Bent)50% TOUR PRO (GDE) (Creeping Bent)

• Superb Dollar Spot, Anthracnose, Fusarium and Brown Patch resistance

• Adaptable to all UK climates• Tolerant of close mowing regimes (as

low as 3mm)• Low seedling mortality rates

compared to browntops and fescues: resulting in faster species conversion away from Poa annua.

• Very tolerant of drought conditions• Sustainable input requirement: UK

users average 92 kg N per annum with reduced chemical usage

Tour Leader is a landmark in the evolution of creeping bentgrass products. This exceptional blend sets the bar high with unrivalled performance, seasonal adaptability, high disease resistance and vivid colour retention. Tour Leader combines two top performers 007 DSB and Tour Pro (GDE) to bring you this all-round leader in the game. Tour Leader - Putting you out in front By pairing the drought tolerance and wear resistance qualities of Tour Pro (GDE) with the cold weather tolerance and sustainability of 007 DSB, we have created a seed mixture with enough genetic diversity to ensure golf greens remain in good condition all year round irrespective of what the weather might throw at them: with the UK’s variable weather patterns meaning no two seasons are ever the same, that level of flexibility makes Tour Leader the ideal over-seeding and reseeding mixture for modern golf greens.

Sowing Rate: 8 - 12g/m2 (80 to 120kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 5 - 8g/m2 (50 - 80kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mm

15Golf mixtures

16 Golf mixtures

“Thefirstseedlingsbegantoemergetendaysafter we over-seeded, and despite one of the wettest summers in recent memory, the results have been amongst the best I’ve seen: we achieved excellent strike rates, with the greens subsequently looking better than ever which means the club, members and my team are all happy.”

James Lindsay Course Manager, Stirling Golf Club

Sowing Rate: 8 - 12g/m2 (80 - 120kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 5 - 8g/m2 (50 - 80kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mm

AberMajesty Browntop Bent blend45% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)45% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent) 10% MUSKET (Browntop Bent)

• Combined genetic traits of three winning varieties

• Natural Fusarium resistant varieties• Contains UK bred varieties for UK

golf greens• Excellent shoot density• Very fine leaved A combination of proven performers AberRoyal and AberRegal and exciting new variety Musket. The increased genetic diversity makes AberMajesty the choice for greenkeepers looking to manage a blend of browntop bentgrasses that offers the prerequisite requirement of good shoot density and fineness of leaf but with vital added resistance to fusarium.

Germinal Bents

Breeding to maximise Fusarium resistance

Breeding trials at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) in Aberystwyth suggested that AberRegal gives above average resistance to Fusarium. The aim of the STRI trial was therefore to examine the susceptibility and resistance of eight browntop bentgrass cultivars to Fusarium under a close mowing regime. The trials showed

that AberRegal offers above average resistance to Fusarium and can therefore increase the effectiveness of, and / or reduce the requirement for a full programme of fungicide applications.

A good percentage of bentgrasses such as AberRegal will therefore provide a firebreak between areas of Poa annua, thereby preventing patches of infection from joining together.

Recent trials carried out by the STRI on behalf of Germinal suggest that overseeding golf greens with browntop bentgrass cultivars such as AberRegal might offer improved resistance against microdochium patch disease, better known as Fusarium patch disease.

AberRegal in fusarium resistance trials

AberRegal Browntop Bent

Control

Golf mixtures

Technical information

17

ForeFront Greens25% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)25% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)10% MUSKET (Browntop Bent)40% 007 DSB (Creeping Bent) • Suitable for soil or sand-based

greens• Enhanced resistance to Red Thread

and Fusarium• Superb stress resistance• Superb year-round green colour• Excellent shoot density and fineness

of leaf

Combining the proven performance of AberMajesty browntop bent blend, with the best creeping bent ensures Forefront Greens delivers the highest levels of disease and stress resistance. With excellent shoot density, fineness of leaf and unrivalled winter and summer greenness, Forefront Greens is the mixture for better golf greens.

Getting the most from overseeding with bentgrasses

Overseeding with bentgrasses is essential to halting the spread of annual meadow grass thus improving the visual appearance and disease resistance of hardworking golf greens. With Browntop, Creeping and Velvet bentgrasses to choose from, Germinal has one of the most extensive bentgrass portfolios on the market.To maximise the benefit that these varieties deliver, follow these simple guidelines when planning next season’s overseeding regime:

1. PlanningSet enough time aside for your overseeding work to be carried out properly and thoroughly. Realistically evaluate what you want to achieve and draw up a schedule of how to get there. Included in this schedule should be an ongoing and comprehensive appraisal of how the bentgrass performs after it has been introduced.

2. TimingThrow away the general rule of thumb for overseeding: that it is best carried out in early Autumn. Overseeding can work well whenever the soil temperature is favourable – the minimum soil temperature for bentgrass germination is 10⁰C with the optimum range being 16 - 22⁰C.This range of temperatures typically means that overseeding work in the UK should be carried out between April and September, although in some areas and in some years this season will be extended. Where a comprehensive and efficient irrigation system is in place, it is better to work at the upper end of the optimum soil and air temperature range as this will give better seed establishment and early stage growth. Alternatively, seeding in advance of warm weather or moisture allows you to utilise a potentially quieter time and then wait for germination.

3. FrequencyClosely allied to timing is the question of frequency. We all know that sometimes, following a renovation, the planets line up and the weather works in our favour to produce a fantastic result. With that in mind, it can be beneficial to hedge your bets and try to overseed twice or maybe three times in the season. This does not necessarily mean buying twice as much seed: for instance, if you only have the budget to overseed your greens once with pure bentgrasses at 5g/m2, you could split that seed and do two light overseedings, each at 2.5g/m2. One of these treatments could be done early in the season, from late March to early April. As long as this first treatment is followed by a spell of mild weather, the results can be very good and can restore the population of desirable grasses in a green right at the beginning of a busy playing season.Overseeding more than once does not therefore mean you have to commit to a potentially disruptive full renovation on each occasion: as long as a good root zone is available for new seeds to be sown into, it is feasible to stitch new seed into an established green via linear grooving or even after a light barrel rolling.

Overseeding golf greens with a high quality bentgrass can increase disease resistance.

Golf mixtures18

4. PreparationEvaluate thatch levels, irrigation coverage, wear patterns, drip lines, tree roots and every other possible biotic cause for poor performance of the grasses on your green. This completed – or at least recognised – you are able to proceed with the preparation.

5. Application: ensure good seed-to-soil contact

There is no right or wrong way to create the correct environment for germination. Broadcasting or drop seeding into linear grooves, hollow cores or tine holes can all work, and of course there are many good seed drills available.The most important thing is to ensure that the seed has good contact with the soil and is sown at the correct depth (not too deeply) and that it remains adequately and consistently moist.A seed only has a small store of energy for the emerging plant to use during the germination period. The coleoptile therefore needs to be able to push through the soil surface as quickly as possible so that the first leaf can emerge and begin photosynthesising. The seedling can then start to process its own energy and will be much more able to establish itself strongly.The correct depth to sow bentgrass to is between 2 - 5mm deep. If overseeding takes place following surface disruption – such as hollow coring – it is essential that cores are top-dressed to within 2 - 5mm of the surface before either top-dressing or broadcasting seed and then applying a light top dressing of between 2 - 5mm.

6. WateringAssuming all the points above have been achieved, germination can take as little as seven days – although 14 - 21 days is more likely. During this period irrigation is really the only controllable resource you have. Ideally the surface should be permanently damp and as soon as the surface feels dry and no material particles stick to your hand, the surface should be covered with a light sprinkling of water.

7. EstablishmentWhen seedlings start to appear and the sward is forming, applications of water should become less frequent but heavier. The sward should be allowed to dry between applications in order to prevent damping off.With regards to first cut, it is an advantage to raise the height of cut. In an ideal world, the cut height would increase up to 6mm. However, if commitments to play mean the most you can get away with is an increase of 1mm from your current mowing height (e.g. an increase from a summer mowing height of 3.5mm up to 4.5mm) for a period of a week, this would be the next best scenario.Most often, successful overseeding is thwarted by poor survival rates of new seedlings rather than poor germination. You can be confident that any seed lot you purchase from a reputable source will adhere to minimum germination rates. The important thing is to consider the establishing seedlings within the sward during every operation you undertake. Aggressive management of the sward should be avoided while seedlings are becoming established; sensible grooming of the sward – such as brushing and light rolling – and only light aeration if required should be the only management techniques used while the root systems of the new seedlings are becoming established.

Ensuring good seed-to-soil contact is the key to successful overseeding.

Golf mixtures 19

In terms of over-seeding frequency, rule number one is to introduce new seed as often as possible: in all but the most favourable years, over-seeding once a year won’t be enough to out-compete Poa, so a minimum of two over-seedings per year – and preferably three or four – will be favourable. This might seem excessive, but it needn’t put pressure on the groundcare budget as the additional spend on over-seeding will be offset by a reduction in fungicide costs.

Preventative over-seeding: an essential disease prevention tactic

With the loss of fungicides such as chlorothalonil, propioconazole and iprodione removing the safety net of using curative chemicals to control turf diseases, greenkeepers must implement a series of linked management strategies to provide effective control against key threats such as Microdochium patch.In essence this means that, in addition to an acceptance that a certain degree of disease scarring is inevitable on golf greens, the future of effective disease management is going to become increasingly reliant on frequent over-seeding with resistant bentgrasses to replace susceptible species such as Poa annua.Microdochium patch, caused by the Microdochium nivale pathogen, affects many cool season turf grass species including annual meadow grass and perennial ryegrass, and especially Poa annua, and is one of the primary causes of disease scarring on golf greens. The pathogen over-summers in thatch or soil before infecting grass leaves in the autumn when cool (0-15oC) and damp conditions – which are also advantageous to Poa – prevail. In Scotland the disease can take hold as early as August, but with the UK’s weather patterns no longer holding any predictability, there’s the potential for the disease to strike at any time of the year.Because microdochium patch thrives in damp, protected conditions it is essential to keep on top of the basics in terms of regular aeration and daily switching to prevent the build-up of excessive thatch and to remove dew. However, it is the ability to increase the population of desirable grass species and to reduce the amount of disease prone Poa annua which will make the real difference in controlling the disease.It therefore makes sense to over-seed using disease resistant bentgrasses which will create fire breaks between patches of Poa annua. A blend of varieties – such as those in Germinal’s AberMajesty and ForeFront Greens blends – is preferable to a single cultivar as this will increase the sward’s genetic diversity and give the over-seeded area a better chance of beating the disease.

Golf mixtures20

Little and often

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Golf mixtures 21

Essential nutrientsAn appropriate fertiliser programme is also essential in the battle against fusarium which tends to develop when grass is growing at a slower than normal rate. Using a slow-release fertiliser or feeding little and often with a conventional fertiliser will reduce excessive flushes of growth and thereby limit the incidence of the disease. At the same time, the amount of iron and magnesium being fed should be increased to produce stronger, more resilient plants.Modern bentgrasses – such as those mentioned above which have lower nutrient and water requirements – are also favourable as their ability to successfully tolerate a low input regime enables the sward to be managed in a manner which is less favourable for the disease’s survival.As well as their inbuilt genetic resistance, cultivars such as AberRegal and AberRoyal are also more resilient against microdochium patch thanks to their ability to thrive in drier, less nutrient-rich conditions.Spring active varieties such as Musket, which gets away quicker in the spring and is therefore able to repair early season disease scarring, should also be considered.Over-seeding several times throughout the year with a blend of these disease resistant varieties is already becoming a necessity and is set to become a key tactic to enable greens to remain disease-free without the use of curative chemicals.

Over-seeding several times a year with disease resistance cultivars such as AberRegal (left) will help to keep greens clear of microdochium patch (right).

Elementary turf management techniques such as daily switching to remove dew are essential to keeping microdochium under control and should be carried out in parallel with preventative over-seeding.

Whilst the method with which new seed is introduced is relatively inconsequential (as long as there’s good seed to soil contact to enable new seedlings to establish quickly and grow away with vigour) the timing of over-seeding operations should be given careful consideration: over-seeding during the traditional late summer window will give good levels of germination, but this timing can produce high levels of seedling mortality due to low cut heights. In addition, the soft cell walls of the seedlings makes these young plants more susceptible to attack from fungal spores just at the time when the threat of infection is at its highest.In contrast, older plants are better able to resist the disease in the autumn thanks to higher levels of cell wall lignin. Over-seeding in the spring therefore gives greens a better chance of withstanding the disease as the sward will be populated by older, more resilient plants when disease pressure rises in the autumn.Similarly, cold-seeding (the practice of over-seeding in the late autumn or early spring to build up a bank of seeds which will germinate as soon as temperatures rise) is also worthy of consideration as this will allow seedlings to establish that little bit earlier, therefore enabling the refreshed sward to get even further ahead of the disease.

Golf wildflower mixtures

“Wekeptournewwildflowerareaatthe side of the 18th green as a surprise for the members this year. Needless to say, they were absolutely thrilled once thefirstflowersraisedtheirheadsatthe end of May. The club members in particular enjoyed looking closely at thedifferentflowersandspottingthemanybutterfliesandbeesthattheareaencouraged. Our past ladies captain even took a picture which she entered intheBBC’sCountryfilecalendarcompetition!”

Golf mixtures22

Steve Stringer High Legh Golf Club

Fairway Meadow

The new Fairway Meadow mixture is suitable for a range of soil types and growing aspects, and provides a meadow habitat for 365 days a year with flowers in bloom from April to September. It contains a variety of UK native and non native annual and perennial species, and provides an ideal food source and habitat for bees and butterflies. It is perfect for boosting diversity and colour on appropriate parts of any parkland golf course and a good way of adding interest to the course for golfers.An 80:20 mix of grasses and annual and perennial flowers including Oxeye Daisy, Birdsfoot Trefoil, Corn poppy, Oxeye Sunflower and Echinacea.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

Woodland Edge

The Woodland Edge Wildflowers mixture creates a year round meadow habitat with flowers providing added colour from April through until September. It contains a wide variety of UK native and non native annual and perennial species, provides a food source and habitat for bees and butterflies and is a great way of boosting diversity and adding colour to shaded parts and marginal areas of any parkland golf course. An 80:20 mix of grasses and UK native annual and perennial wildflowers including Garlic Mustard, Red Campion, Square Stemmed St Johns Wort and Hedge Parsley.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

Links Habitat

The new Links Habitat seed mixture contains a selection of UK native perennial wild flower species which are synonymous with sandy links soils and which can increase biodiversity to provide an all year round habitat and food source for bees and butterflies. A mix of native grasses including Browntop bent and Sheeps fescue.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

Golf mixtures 23

Sportmixtures

24 Sport mixtures

Grade ‘A’ sport mixtures

Designed specifically forthe professional user, Grade ‘A’ sport mixtures always include vigorous lots of the most highly rated cultivars available. The result is a dependable range of mixtures that consistently deliver results time and time again.

A1Professional Bowls40% BOGART (Chewings Fescue)40% HUMBOLDT (Chewings Fescue)10% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)10% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)

• High shoot density• High resistance to

red thread• Withstands close mowing• Very fine texture

A1 is suitable for over-seeding or sowing of new constructions where improved sward density, drought tolerance and disease resistance are required. The cultivars chosen for this mixture produce an attractive, all-year, dark green appearance.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 4mm for GreensFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)G14 Alleviate Fe (autumn / winter)

A5Cricket, Tennis and Tees50% ESCAPADE(Perennial Ryegrass)50% CABRIO* (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)

• Quick to establish• Hard wearing• High density ground

cover• Superior rooting

This 100% perennial ryegrass blend is one of the top-performing mixtures of its kind for close mown high quality turf areas. A5 is an ideal mixture for repairing wicket ends and base lines, where excellent root penetration and density is required. Includes Cabrio – the highest rated variety for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 5-20mm

* The highest rated variety for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.

A7‘Olympic Quality’ Sports Ground35% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)30% CARNAC (Perennial Ryegrass)20% BORLUNA (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)15% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)

• Dark green in summer and winter

• Rapid recovery from wear• High shoot density

drought tolerant sward• Excellent Red Thread

resistance

A7 is the ultimate sports ground mixture for new constructions where ‘Olympic quality’ is required. Adaptable to variable managements to suit a wide range of sports.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 10-25mmShade Option: For enhanced shade and wear tolerance, a 2.5% content of Supreme Poa supina can be includedFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

Sport mixtures 25

Sport mixtures26

Nick Marsh Greenside Up Grass

We use A5 on the wickets at East Molesey Cricket Club because it’s the best rated cricket mixture according to the STRI’s data andbecauseitproducesthedesiredeffect:fast and reliable germination (even when sown late in the season), an aesthetically pleasing sward which recovers well, and a playing surfacewhichisfinebutrobustenoughtoensure I can produce enough wickets to keep all the club’s teams happy throughout the entire season. It’s the best wicket the ground has ever had.”

A9GeneralOutfield40% ESCAPADE (Perennial Ryegrass)30% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)20% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)10% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)

• Cost effective sports field mixture

• General purpose use• Rapid establishment

An all-round general purpose sports field mixture that provides quick establishment and forms a resilient surface for outfields and local authority play areas. A9 is suitable for a wide range of soil types.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 20mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Basatop FairOnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A14Racecourse and Polo Grounds35% CADIX (Perennial Ryegrass)35% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)30% ZURICH (Perennial Ryegrass)

• Quick divot repair• Extremely hard wearing• Dark green in winter

and summer

A14 is suitable for racecourses, polo grounds and training areas. It creates a sward that is hardwearing and recovers quickly after events.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 20mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – NovaTec N-Max orNovaTec Premium

Sport mixtures 27

Grade ‘A’ sport mixtures

A20Premier Ryesport30% EUROPITCH (Perennial Ryegrass)10% EUROSPORT (Perennial Ryegrass)35% CARNAC (Perennial Ryegrass)25% EUROCORDUS (Perennial Ryegrass)

• High shoot density• Dark green in winter

and summer• A combination of

fineness of leaf and a good cleanness of cut make a sward that is exceptionally easy to mow stripes

• Good disease resistance• Good post winter

recovery

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 - 100g/m2

Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 - 40g/m2

Cutting Height: Down to 25mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LR, Fertilis Swing NKOnce established – Fertilis Speed, GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A20Creeping Perennial Ryesport15% EUROPITCH (Perennial Ryegrass)35% CARNAC (Perennial Ryegrass)15% EUROSPORT (Perennial Ryegrass)15% EUROCORDUS (Perennial Ryegrass)20% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 - 100g/m2

Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 - 40g/m2

Cutting Height: Down to 25mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LR, Fertilis Swing NKOnce established – Fertilis Speed, GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A20Supreme Poa SupinaDon’t be afraid of the dark! Gain an advantage for the shaded parts of your pitch.Poa supina is proven to proliferate in shaded areas and offers a wear tolerance greater than that of perennial ryegrass. In the past, varieties of Poa supinas have been lighter in colour than perennial ryegrass, but Supreme Poa Supina is much darker in colour and blends in perfectly with modern pserennial ryegrass varieties. An inclusion of 2.5% Supreme Poa Supina in ‘Your A20’ mixture will increase the ability of your sward to recover on the shaded parts of your pitch.

FACTS qualified (see page 02 for further details)

Having chosen A20 Premier Ryesport, why not let one of our qualified advisers write up a fertiliser plan to help you gain the best performance from your sward throughout the coming year?

All special mixtures are subject to a mixture surcharge and a wait of 3 - 4 working days should be expected.All cultivars subject to availability.

Sport mixtures28

25

“I was watering the pitch up to four times a day during that summer’s warmer spells, but we also saw a decent amount of rainfall which helped the newly established seedlings to grow away rapidly. It grew so quickly in fact thatitsfirstcut(at45mm)wasdonejust14days after seeding, after which I gradually reduced the cutting height by 3mm week on week until the start of the season.”

Martyn Cook Head Groundsman, Accrington Stanley FC

Sport mixtures 29

A30Rapid Sports Renovator Plus35% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)35% CARNAC (Perennial Ryegrass)30% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)

• Hardwearing• Cost effective• Offering good recovery• Includes Zurich creeping

perennial ryegrass for added recovery

A30 is a perfect mixture for sports contractors looking for a high performance, hardwearing mixture suitable for winter pitches of varying standards from top division football and rugby through to municipal areas. The inclusion of Zurich ensures good recovery.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Fertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – Fertilis Speed, GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

A999Rescue25% TETRASPORT(Tetraploid Amenity Perennial Ryegrass)50% THUNDER(Amenity Annual Ryegrass)25% DOUBLE (Tetraploid Amenity Perennial Ryegrass)

• Rapid germination• Germinates at low

temperatures• A ‘rescue’ mix to establish

grass when and where necessary during winter months

A999 is a blend of Thunder, a specially bred amenity annual ryegrass which will germinate at very low soil temperatures, and an amenity Tetraploid that will also germinate at low temperatures and persist into the spring when temperatures increase. This mixture is designed as a ‘rescue’ mix for bare areas where it would be desirable to establish some grass cover in the colder months from October - February. It is not intended for use as a renovation mix where mixtures such as A20 Premier Ryesport or A30 Rapid Sports Renovator Plus should be used.

Sowing Rate: 45g/m2 (450kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 30g/m2 (300kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 35mmFertiliser Recommendation: For winter feeding considerG13 ProteKt, G14 Alleviate Fe

A31Supreme Tees85% TETRIS (Smooth-Stalked Meadow Grass)15% SUPREME (Poa Supina)

• Unrivalled shade tolerance

• Disease resistance• Uniform neat cleanness

of cut• Exceptionally

hardwearing with good recovery

The perfect mixture for shaded golf tees or any extremely shaded areas on golf courses or in sports stadia. Includes Supreme Poa supina; this mixture is extremely shade tolerant and offers exceptional wear tolerance once established. Supreme is a new improved variety Poa supina with a darker colour than older varieties. Being 100% Poa species means the mixture offers above average disease resistance and an unrivalled cleanness of cut, giving a uniform hardwearing and disease free sward even in the most shady areas.

Sowing Rate: 10 -15g/m2 (100 - 150kg/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 3mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – Fertilis Speed, GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn)G14 Alleviate Fe (winter)

Zurich Creeping Perennial RyegrassExcellent wear tolerance and persistence due to creeping growth habit. A useful addition for pitches that are highly trafficked but not intensively managed such as school playing fields.

Zurich showing regenerative qualities in trials.

Sport mixtures30

Landscaping mixtures32

What’s in your bag of grass seed?

All too often we hear horror stories about landscape seeding projects which have failed to establish properly, or where the client has been left underwhelmed by a thin, patchy or unsightly sward. Luckily, the key to ensuring future projects don’t fall foul of the same problem is simply a case of selecting clean, viable and high quality seed lots, sowing at the right time and in the right conditions, and providing adequate water and nutrients.

The fundamentals of seed qualityIrrespective of whether the landscape being seeded is a fine turf lawn, wildflower meadow, communal green area or any other newly sown habitat, the success or failure of a project will be dependent on the quality of the seed being used. Fundamentally there are three areas to focus on:1. The quality of the seed variety selected2. The purity of the seed lot3. The viability or germination rate of the seed lotPut simply, even a seed mixture containing the highest quality varieties will not perform if the seed itself is old and unable to germinate.

Seed purity and germination rates

Grass and wildflower seeds are sold by weight. As such, the cleaner the seed or the smaller the quantity of impurities such as weed seeds and stalks, the greater the purity of the contents of the bag will be.Based upon a 50/50 mix of perennial ryegrass and fescues, a top quality bag of seed that contain HVS (Higher Voluntary Standard) purity will minimum purity of 96.5% in contrast, a bag containing seed cleaned to very minimum EU norms could have purity of just 93% meaning that nearly 1.5kg of that 20kg bag is made up of undesirable, chaff, stalk or weed seeds.Germination is arguably a bigger factor. EU standards dictate that, depending on the species in question, seed must be at least 70 - 80% viable. At this level, only 14 - 16kg of seed from a 20kg bag will germinate reliably. Specifying a cheaper bag of seed is therefore a false economy.In contrast, Germinal prides itself on selling only the best quality seed lots, with high purity scores and germination rates typically ranging from 90 - 95%. In fact, our Grade ‘A’ seed mixtures exceed all current industry standards, meaning more grass seed and less undesirable material. This means:• Fewer seed drill blockages • Improved sward uniformity• Better germination • Harder wearing swards• Faster sward establishment • Easier sward managementIt therefore makes sense to specify not only the most appropriate cultivars, but also to purchase from a reputable source which can guarantee the seed’s viability.

Landscaping mixtures 33

Quality cultivarsAs mentioned, the genetic merits of the cultivar chosen will also have a significant impact on the success or failure of a seeding project.The British Society of Plant Breeders’ (BSPB) turf grass seed booklet is the best source of information in terms of which cultivars are best suited to a specific purpose. This booklet summarises the results of extensive independent trials for a range of amenity grass seeds, from winter sports pitches and summer lawns, to intensively managed and close mown grasses, and ranks each variety according to several key traits and characteristics.As an example, Cabrio Ultra-Fine Ryegrass is ranked at the top of the BSPB’s list for perennial ryegrasses for use in lawns, landscaping, summer sports and turf trials. Like all perennial ryegrasses, Cabrio is hardwearing. However, unlike most other varieties, Cabrio gives very slow rates of regrowth. This trait makes Cabrio much easier to maintain. This is why Cabrio is included in Germinal’s A22 Low Maintenance mixture – other perennial ryegrasses simply can’t achieve what Cabrio does. Unfortunately, A22 is our most plagiarised landscape mixture, and all too often we see a lesser variety of perennial ryegrass being used: these seed mixtures might be similar in terms of the species being used, but that is where the similarity ends. By using a mixture with a sub-standard variety in place of Cabrio, you will unwittingly negate the whole reason for selecting A22 in the first place, as it will not be low maintenance.So, next time you’re specifying a low maintenance landscape mixture, make sure it’s Germinal A22: that way you’ll know you’re getting a reliable and proven seed mixture which will deliver the results expected by even the hardest to please clients.

Standard seed mixture (meets EU minimum standard)

Germinal seed mixture (meets or exceeds Higher Voluntary Standard)

Less uniform germination Better germination and improved sward uniformityMore contaminants per bag More viable seed per bag

Weed seeds create increased workload Laboratory tested for germination and purityChaffandstalkscauseseeddrillblock-ages In-house cleaning removes undesirable material

EU minimum germination fescue - 75%EU minimum germination perennial ryegrass - 80%

Typically in excess of 90%

† Assuming a 50:50% mixture of perennial ryegrass and strong creeping red fescue.

Landscapingmixtures

34

Grade ‘A’ landscaping mixtures

Designed specifically forthe professional user, Grade ‘A’ landscaping mixtures always include vigorous lots of the most highly rated cultivars available. The result is a dependable range of mixtures that consistently deliver results time and time again.

Left uncutZurich Creeping perennial ryegrass exhibiting pseudo stolons

A2Quality Lawns25% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)45% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)25% BORLUNA (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)5% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)

• Non ryegrass ornamental landscaping

• Attractive fine texture• Withstands close mowing• Suits a wide range

of soil types

A2 is suitable for high quality lawns and commercial landscaping projects. It produces a fine textured ground cover which maintains good all year greenness. It is particularly suited to sandy soil of a more acidic nature and prone to drought, but will happily grow on other soil types too.

Sowing Rate: 50g/m2 (500kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 6mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)G13 ProteKt (autumn / winter)

A3Embankmentsand Drought30% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)30% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)10% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)25% TROPICANA (Tall Fescue)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

• Stabilises loose soils• Quicker to establish

than other embankment mixtures

• Can be used with reinforced matting for very steep slopes

• Drought tolerant• Suits a range of soil types

All new improved A3 now includes Zurich Creeping Perennial Ryegrass. This advanced creeping type provides the mixture with the speed of establishment of a perennial ryegrass whilst maintaining the mixture’s overall ability to creep and stabilize banks. This makes the new improved blend more effective in cooler temperatures at the beginning and end of the growing season.

Sowing Rate: 50g/m2 (500kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 15-50mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase

A4Low Maintenance Areas65% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)10% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)20% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

• Non ryegrass low maintenance landscaping

• Natural parkland appearance

• Tolerates poor soil types• Low nutrient use

A4 is suitable for creating natural grassland landscapes where minimal maintenance is required. It is adaptable to a range of cutting heights, making it ideal for whip plantings or left to grow to form an attractive seed head canopy.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha) or 5-10g/m2 (50-100kg/ha when combining wild flowers)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 20mm-uncut levelFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – No requirement


A6Supreme Shade50% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)25% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)22.5% TETRIS (Smooth Stalked Meadow grass)2.5% SUPREME (Poa Supina)

• Tolerates shade• Tolerates drought• Maintains good

ground cover

This mixture now benefits from the inclusion of the shade tolerant Supreme Poa supina which also tolerates wear. These properties make A6 ideal for problem shade areas under trees and building surrounds. Use a pre-seed fertiliser prior to sowing to provide good nutrient levels and relieve compaction to aid establishment.

Sowing Rate: 40g/m2 (400kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 25g/m2 (250kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 25 - 50mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)

A15Reclamation Landfill35% RELEVANT (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)30% ABERDART (Perennial Ryegrass)17.5% TETRIS (Smooth Stalked Meadow grass)10% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERACE (Miniature White Clover)

• Rapid establishment• Performs on variable

soil types• Tolerates farm

stock grazing• Limits soil erosion and

contaminant leaching

A15 has a proven history of performing on a variety of reclamation schemes from colliery spoil tips to landfill sites. This mixture combines ingredients that provide rapid establishment along with tolerance to difficult growing conditions.

Sowing Rate: 25g/m2 (250kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 15g/m2 (150kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 25 - 75mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – NovaTec N-Max or NovaTec Premium

A16Reclamation Country Parks40% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)20% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)17.5% TETRIS (Smooth Stalked Meadow grass)15% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERACE (Miniature White Clover)

• Natural grassland appearance

• Performs on variable soil types

• Low maintenance• Drought resistant

A16 is a low maintenance mixture for reclamation and general landscaping schemes which are based on poor soil types and where a natural appearance is sought.

Sowing Rate: 25g/m2 (250kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 15g/m2 (150kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 25 - 75mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – NovaTec N-Max orNovaTec Premium

A17Legume and Clover25% COMMON VETCH (Vicia sativa)15% LUCERNE (Medicago sativa)15% BIRDSFOOT TREFOIL (Lotus corniculatus)15% SAINFOIN (Onobrychis vicifolia)15% WHITE CLOVER (Trifolium repens)15% RED CLOVER (Trifolium pretense)

• Suitable as a green manure

• Improves soil structure and fertility

• Visually attractive• Attracts insects and birds

A17 is a mixture designed for seeding onto poor sites either on its own or in combination with one of our other mixtures. A17 fixes nitrogen into the soil, helping to support growth of other grasses. The sward can also be ploughed back in to improve soil structure.

Sowing Rate: 2.5g/m2 (25kgs/ha)Cutting Height: As required as part of other mixturesFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – GSR Tri-PhaseOnce established – No Requirement


A19All Purpose Landscaping35% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)10% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)25% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)25% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

• All purpose mixture• Rapid establishment• Forms a hard wearing,

dense attractive lawn• Suits a wide range of

soil types• Added Zurich Creeping

perennial ryegrass ensures ability to regenerate from wear in unmanaged situations

A19 is a universal mixture suitable for domestic lawns and commercial landscaping projects. It produces a fine even textured ground cover which maintains good all year greenness.

Sowing Rate: 50g/m2 (500kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 20mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn / winter)

A18Road Verge & Embankments40% CORAIL (Strong Creeping Red Fescue)10% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)12.5% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)10% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)20% TETRIS (Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERACE (Miniature White Clover)

• Suitable for all D.O.T. specifications

• Added Zurich Creeping perennial ryegrass ensure ability to regenerate from wear in unmanaged situations

A18 excels over and above other D.O.T road verge mixtures due to the inclusion of several exclusive and unique varieties. Zurich Creeping Perennial ryegrass adds extra binding capacity on undulating areas to prevent soil erosion and the inclusion of AberAce white clover, which has the ability to fix 150kg/N per ha per annum makes the mixture self–sustaining.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 25g/m2 (250kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 25 - 50mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – No requirement

A21Saline Coastal & Road Verges40% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)30% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)10% JOANNA (Chewings Fescue)15% TROPICANA (Tall Fescue)5% 007 DSB (Creeping Bent)

• Suitable for salt sprayed areas

• Tolerates drought• Stabilises sandy soilsA21 is suitable for coastal reclamation and road verges where soil salinity is greater than normal. Initial rapid establishment is provided from the perennial ryegrass content with persistency from the rest of the species, which tolerate poor fertility and drought conditions.

Sowing Rate: 40g/m2 (400kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 25g/m2 (250kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 25 - 50mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn / winter)


A26So-Green60% STRAVINSKY (Perennial Ryegrass)35% BORLUNA (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)2.5% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)2.5% ABERREGAL (Browntop Bent)

• Year round dark green colour

• Hardwearing• Excellent ground cover• Outstanding visual

appearance

A26 is the ultimate stay-green mixture. It will remain greener than other grass mixtures even during the winter. Perfect for landscape situations where appearance is everything.

Sowing Rate: 35g/m2 (350kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 25mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)G13 ProteKt (autumn / winter)

A24Wear & Tear35% MIRADOR (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)10% HIGHNOTE (Chewings Fescue)20% ZURICH (Creeping Perennial Ryegrass)30% ESCAPADE (Perennial Ryegrass)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

• Very hard wearing• Multi-specification use• Suits a wide range of

soil types

A24 is a universal mixture where extra durability is required from lawns and commercial landscaping projects. It produces an even textured ground cover which can be mown closely if a more formal appearance is required.

Sowing Rate: 50g/m2 (500kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Down to 10mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn / winter)

A25Agricultural Reinstatement24% ABERCHOICE (Perennial Ryegrass)23% ABERDART (Perennial Ryegrass)20% ABERCLYDE (Perennial Ryegrass)20% ABERECHO (Hybrid Ryegrass)6.5% PRESTO (Timothy)6.5% ABERACE (Miniature White Clover)

• Typical long-term grazing mixture

• Suitable for landfill capping

• Reinstatement of farm land pastures

• Can be cut for hay

A25 is ideal for landscape contractors who are required to repair farmland damaged through pipeline projects, cabling or general vehicle access. The mixture contains up to date varieties which are compatible with modern farming. It can be grazed by all types of farm stock and can also be conserved for hay.

Sowing Rate: 8g/m2 (80kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Graze or cut as requiredFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – GSR Tri-PhaseOnce established – NovaTec N-Max

A22Low Maintenance20% CABRIO* (Ultrafine Perennial Ryegrass)40% CALICO (Perennial Ryegrass)35% BORLUNA (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)5% HIGHLAND (Browntop Bent)

• Hardwearing and low maintenance

• Unique amongst low maintenance mixtures

• Lower carbon footprint• Reduce labour input

to maintain• Excellent ground cover• Suppresses weeds

A22 is a unique perennial ryegrass-based, low maintenance mixture. Cabrio is rated highly for slow regrowth after mowing. Most traditional low maintenance mixtures are fescue based and consequently have limited wear tolerance. A22 offers the best of both worlds, a low maintenance sward that is very hardwearing.

Sowing Rate: 50g/m2 (500kgs/ha)Overseeding Rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting Height: Between 20 - 50mmFertiliser Recommendation: In the seedbed – Agrosil® LROnce established – GSR Tri-Phase (spring / summer)Novatec Premium (autumn / winter)* The highest rated variety for summer sports in the 2021 BSPB list.


AberSustain

AberSustain is a self sustaining mixture perfect for open parkland areas, domestic lawns, road verges and for green roofs and solar parks.The mixture is unique because all the varieties used are UK bred varieties from the IBERS breeding programme, UK bred for UK conditions. All varieties are chosen to complement each other perfectly and create a mixture that is environmentally and economically sustainable, perfect for the time in which we now live.

20% ABERAVON (Perennial Ryegrass)45% ABERFLEECE (Sheeps Fescue)20% ABERCHARM (Slender Creeping Red Fescue)10% ABERROYAL (Browntop Bent)5% ABERACE (Small White Clover)

AberAvon Perennial RyegrassThe inclusion of AberAvon agricultural perennial ryegrass makes the mixture suitable for low intensity grazing when it is used for solar park or land reclamation sites.

AberFleece Sheeps FescueThe foundation of the mixture, AberFleece exhibits very short vegetative growth and will not typically exceed 140mm when left unmown. A dark green colour is exhibited through the year, and coupled with inherent drought and low nutrient tolerance and fineness of leaf, gives the mixture a strong base but fine appearance.

AberCharm Slender Creeping Red FescueAberCharm produces a very dense compact sward with exceptional winter and summer greenness, which exceeded those of all other varieties in trials. Inherently fine leaved, drought tolerant and disease resistant, this stoloniferous grass supports the attributes of AberFleece and binds the mixture together.

AberRoyal Browntop BentAberRoyal offers exceptional shoot density to assist AberCharm to bind the sward together, a very fine leaf and exceptional winter and summer greenness further ensure the sward has a good visual appearance.

• Fixes its own nitrogen• UK bred cultivars for UK conditions• Low maintenance• Drought resistance• Low nutrient tolerant• Clover flowers benefit bees

and pollinators• Binds soil• Suitable for green roofs

AberAce White CloverAberAce is the smallest leaved white clover† and this makes it perfect for blending into amenity swards so that the benefits of clover can be utilised without the plant dominating the grasses. AberAce has a very high stolon density, this allows it to fix on average 150 kg N/ha, eliminating the requirement for additional fertilisers in amenity areas with low to medium intensity usage. White clover root systems improve soil structure and can help to overcome problems of soil compaction.Studies at IBERS have demonstrated improved soil structure resulting from a white clover component in the sward:• White clover has been shown to significantlydecreasethebulkdensity of soils and increase porosity

• General movement of nutrients was improved, making them more available to plants and subsequently improving plant health

Sowing rate: 40g/m2 (400kgs/ha)Overseeding rate: 20g/m2 (200kgs/ha)Cutting height: Down to 30mm† NIAB Recommended Grass and Clover Lists 2012

Improved soil structure is seen in the soil core with a higher clover content.


40

Wild floramixtures


Wild Sustainable BeautyAs part of our commitment to improving the environmental and ecological benefit of man-made environments, our wildflower mixtures have changed for 2021. In addition to our UK specific Regional Environmental (RE) mixtures, we have incorporated a selection of pollinator-friendly non-native and ‘garden’ varieties into our General Landscaping Wild Flora (WF & WFG) range.Research carried out by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has shown that the inclusion of these non-native species can lengthen the flowering season at the beginning and end of the year, thereby providing a more abundant and longer-lasting source of nectar and pollen to boost populations of pollinating insects such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies.

Our updated WF and WFG mixtures are therefore more pollinator-friendly for 2021, and also offer more aesthetically appealing results thanks to their wider palette of longer-lasting colours. Please see below for more information.

A proud history of promoting environmental diversityGerminal was one of the first seed companies to recognise the importance of protecting the diversity and sustainability of the UK’s wild flora heritage – not only to maintain healthy ecological systems, but also to enhance the environmental aesthetics of the man-made green spaces that we create and manage – and has been supplying high quality wildflower seed to the landscaping sector for over 35 years.

Our extensive range contains a broad selection of UK native and non-native flowers (all of which have been deemed ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ by the Royal Horticultural Society), as well as selected grasses to complement the natural habitat in which these flowers grow.

Important information regarding our wildflower mixtures:

Scan this code with your phone or tablet camera to learn more about changes to our wildlower range.

Regional Environmental (RE) MixturesWhere the inclusion of only UK native species is essential, our Regional Environmental (RE) mixtures are formulated according to the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey. These ‘True Meadow’ mixtures are therefore 100% complementary to their region’s natural habitat and native wildlife populations, thereby helping to preserve the heritage of our natural grass and floral habitats. (All our RE mixtures are formulated by seed number and not by weight, thereby giving a balanced content of all species.)

Wild flora mixturesGerminal offers two ranges of wildflower seeds:• General Landscaping (Urban Meadow) Wild Flora (WF & WFG) mixtures:

native and non-native species for urban and suburban areas where the critical drivers are aesthetically appealing floral displays that not only please the public but also benefit bees and other pollinators.

• Regional Environmental (RE) mixtures: where only UK-native species are essential to preserve the natural habitat and indigenous wildlife populations.

General Landscaping (Urban Meadow) Wild Flora (WF) MixturesThis range contains 100% wildflower (WF) and ready-to-sow wildflower and complementary grass blends (WFG). These mixtures are suitable for use across a range of different soil types and aspects and are ideal for producing aesthetically attractive and ecologically valuable meadow habitats. A landscape architect would select these mixtures for use in urban or suburban settings such as new housing estates and business or retail park developments. Unlike ‘true meadow’ mixtures – which don’t exhibit the vibrant sea of floral colours the public has grown to expect – our new WF and WFG mixtures (which now include selected non-native and ‘garden’ species) produce a much more stunning and wider array of colours that is more akin to what the public believes a wildflower meadow should look like: by indulging these idylls the enhanced wildflower meadow is more likely to be proactively maintained instead of being undervalued and neglected, or eventually being ‘tidied’ back to a mown area of lawn, thus negating any environmental benefit. By enhancing the composition and appearance of our WF range, we believe the urban meadows they produce will survive for longer, thereby providing an enriched environment for the bees, pollinators, birds and mammals that depend upon them.

Bespoke mixturesIn addition to our standard RE, WF and WFG mixtures, we are also able to create special one-off mixtures to suit your site-specific requirements – please contact us for more information. Choosing the right Wild Flora Seed Mixture To pinpoint the ideal wildflower mixture for your soil type, location, and specific project requirements please use our quick reference product selector at germinalamenity.com/productselector. Alternatively, for more advice on the most suitable mixture(s) for your needs or advice about a special formulation, please speak to one of our knowledgeable technical sales representatives (see page 69).



1st cut Early July

Repeated cuts Monthly during August, September and October

Cutting Height 70 - 100mm

Regional Environmental mixtures (RE)Autumn sown - Year one

Cut from mid-July to early September. This can be done as one cut but preferably, and if the meadow is big enough, you will cut it in sections leaving a week to a fortnight between cuts. Ensure you collect the arisings. If the meadow is large enough consider allowing up to a fifth to stand uncut through the winter and cut down and remove the clippings in March the following year, this will provide a habitat for invertebrates and some vertebrates over the winter. Rotate this area so a different section is left uncut each year. This more closely replicates the grazing of animals which would leave some small areas not grazed. If possible and with the obvious exception of areas you are leaving uncut, lightly mow the sward down to 70 - 100mm as required throughout the winter months until March and collect the clippings.

1st cut Mid - September – 1st October and collect the arisings

Repeated cuts Monthly during August, September and October


Spring sown - Year one

Maintenance thereafter

Urban Meadowmixtures (WF and WFG)

1st cut Mid - September – 1st October and collect the arisings


Cut from mid-August to early October. This can be done as one cut but preferably, and if the meadow is big enough, you will cut it in sections leaving a week to a fortnight between cuts. Ensure you collect the arisings. If the meadow is large enough consider allowing up to a fifth to stand uncut through the winter and cut down and remove the clippings in March the following year, this will provide a habitat for invertebrates and some vertebrates over the winter. Rotate this area so a different section is left uncut each year. This more closely replicates the grazing of animals which would leave some small areas not grazed. If possible and with the obvious exception of areas you are leaving uncut, lightly mow the sward down to 70-100mm as required throughout the winter months until March and collect the clippings.

Cut down to 70-100mm from early September. Remove arisings. If practical consider leaving up to one fifth of the area uncut, the remaining dead stalks will provide a nesting and hibernation site and egg laying habitat for invertebrates over the winter. Alternate this area each winter. If possible and with the obvious exception of areas you are leaving uncut, lightly mow the sward down to 70-100mm as required throughout the winter months until March and collect the clippings.

Mixtures without grass (WF1, WF3 and WF19)

These require no maintenance although over-sowing may be required in the Spring each year until a sufficient seed bank has been built up.

Mixtures of Annuals (WF10 and WF17)

General landscaping

100% UK Native

Regional environmental (RE) mixtures

RE1Traditional Hay Meadow(MG5 Grassland)

A grassland and wildflower community which reflects an old hay meadow before the advent of modern agricultural practises. Suitable for being managed by grazing in the long term however for the first few seasons managing by cutting might be required in order to develop the depth of sward to avoid excessive poaching. A great habitat for invertebrates, birds and mammals.

Where to use this mixture:• Heavy clay soils• Road verges• Embankments• Quarry areas• Lowland areas• To encourage insects

and birdsAn 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Meadowsweet, Agrimony and Salad burnet.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE2Lowland Meadow(MG9 Grassland)

A great habitat mixture most suited to low lying areas and soils that never fully dry out.

Where to use this mixture:• Moist soils• Open woodland• River and lake banks• Industrial land• To encourage insects

and birdsAn 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Meadowsweet, Knapweed and Meadow Vetchling.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE3River Flood Plain / Water Meadow(MG8 Grassland)

A mixture to replicate valuable water meadows which provide great habitats for invertebrates, mammals and good hunting grounds for birds of prey.

Where to use this mixture:• Water meadows• River and lake banks• Seasonally flooded

lowlands• To encourage insects

and birdsAn 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Marsh Marigold, Ragged Robin and Rough Hawkbit.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2


Scan this code with your smart phone or tablet camera to visit the Germinal Amenity wildflower page to find your product mixture breakdown or go to germinalamenity.com

100% UK Native

RE4Lowland Limestone(CG2 Grassland)A mixture of wildflower and grass species suited to calcareous soils and designed as a standard mixture to create a habitat on these specialist sites where colonisation can be difficult.

Where to use this mixture:• Free draining soils• Limestone areas• Earthwork areas• Road verges• To encourage insects

and birds

An 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Kidney Vetch, Yarrow and Small Scabious.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE8Coastal Reclamation(MG12 Grassland)This mixture creates habitats most commonly seen in coastal areas such as the top of estuary banks and behind semi dune areas. This mixture will tolerate occasional flooding during high tides.

Where to use this mixture:• Coastal areas• Free-draining soils• Tidal areas• Salt marshesAn 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Cats Ear, Ribwort Plantain and Birdsfoot Trefoil.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE9Farmland Mixture(MG6 Grassland)This mixture lends itself for use in country parks and farmland situations where habitat is required on headlands or around more intensively used amenity open space.

Where to use this mixture:• Moist, free-draining soils• Landfill sites• Farmland and

country parks• Informal lawns• Educational sites

An 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Black Medick, Yarrow and Yellow Rattle.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE10Marginal Land(U20 Grassland)The species in this mixture tolerate a range of soil types and it is useful for reclamation areas when habitat is required. The mixture provides a habitat for many invertebrates and consequently the birds and mammals that feed on them.

Where to use this mixture:• Various soil types• Landfill sites• Reclamation sitesAn 80:20 mix of grasses & native wildflowers including Common Sorrel, Harebell and Creeping Buttercup.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2

RE11Heath Scrubland(U13 Grassland)The mixture is a blend of grass species that suit heathland soils and can be used to get coverage on these areas so that other species in surrounding heathland areas can colonise within the sward over time. Suits low fertility soils and creates a habitat for invertebrates and ground nesting birds.

Where to use this mixture:• Poor fertility soils• For a natural

grassland look• Reclamation sites• As a combination mixture

with other wild floraA mix of native grasses including Browntop bent and Sheeps fescue.

Sowing Rate: 5g/m2


WF1Flowering MeadowWhere to use this mixture:This mixture is suited to urban and surburban settings, such as roundabouts, verges at retail parks and similar areas when a highly floral area without grasses is required. The annual species produces an initial display of colour in the first year and the perennial species persist therafter. The broader range of wildflowers and selected non-native species maximises the flowering period and abundance of flowers to the benefit of bees and pollinators. Because this mixture doesn’t contain any grass, estabilshment can be slower and bare areas of soil are left for longer while the wildflower plants estabilsh; it is therefore crucial that the seed bed is clean of weed species otherwise they can quickly outcompete the emerging wildflower plants.A mix of annual and perennial UK native wildflowers and selected non-native species including Corncockle, Oxeye sunflower, Coeropsis, Corn poppy and Phacelia.

Sowing Rate: 1g/m2

WF3General Purpose Neutral SoilsWhere to use this mixture:This mixture provides a This mixture includes a wide range of perennials to suit a variety of soil types and localities in urban and suburban settings. Once established the broad range of wildflower species and ornamental varieties ensures a highly floral display will return year after year. The broad range of wildflower species and ornamentals maximises the flowering period and abundance of flowers to the benefit of bees and pollinators Because this mixture doesn’t contain

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