Persistent yields with Stampede CM142

They also seek reliable assurances against common issues such as ryegrass staggers and insect damage.

Taking onboard this feedback, Cropmark developed Stampede diploid perennial ryegrass with the innovative CM142 endophyte.

The journey to Stampede CM142 has been one of perseverance.

Developed by Cropmark’s breeding team in Canterbury and incorporating insight from farmers, Stampede represents many years of research and insight to combine the best ryegrass genetics with a new and unique novel endophyte.

Stampede CM142 is more than just another ryegrass cultivar, says Cropmark’s plant breeder Stephane Montel.

“This late-heading diploid perennial ryegrass boasts consistent yield performance validated through rigorous on-farm trials across Australia and New Zealand,” Stephane said.

“It’s a very nice-looking grass, dark coloured with very high tiller density to improve its persistence and ensure a reliable source of high-quality forage throughout the year.”

Central to Stampede’s remarkable resilience is the CM142 endophyte, a ground-breaking discovery with origins tracing back to the harsh alpine regions of Greece.

Harnessing the natural insect deterrent capabilities of Epoxy Janthitrem alkaloids, CM142 combined with Stampede’s robust genetics “offers a natural defence mechanism to increase pasture persistence, which is a key attribute for perennial pasture,” Stephane said.

“Our main effort in developing CM142 was to maintain the component around insect protection while increasing livestock performance, due to lesser toxicity and better forage production.”

However, the benefits of Stampede extend beyond pest resistance.

“CM142 has consistently shown a reduced potential to induce ryegrass staggers and heat stress. We believe this is a result of its unique alkaloid levels,” Stephane said.

Stampede CM142 is available this autumn.

For more information, contact your local Cropmark Seeds representative.