A review of forage grass and clover seed use in Northern Ireland, UK between 1980 and 2004

The total amount and the composition of varieties of all forage grass and clover seed delivered for farm use in Northern Ireland was monitored over the 25‐year period of 1980–2004. Total seed use in Northern Ireland declined from the 1980s to the 1990s but then stabilized despite isolated drops in sales associated with outbreaks of animal diseases. This profile was mirrored by similar declines in the rest of the UK. The survey revealed the annual volatility of the market and its sensitivity to changes in government financial support, to changes in farm practice and farm incomes. Examination of the data on the grassland area under 5 years old showed them to be poor indicators of actual seed use. Levels of species use were very stable over the 25 years of the survey but reseeding of varieties of perennial ryegrass differing in maturity and ploidy type changed dramatically. When sufficient seed was available, selection of varieties complied with the contemporary recommended list ratings of agronomic value but in a few cases selection of varieties was determined by price. The current survey of seed sales provides a benchmark against which responses by farmers following the latest changes in the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union can be measured.