‘Grasslands Gala’ grazing brome (Bromus stamineus Desv.)—a new dryland pasture grass

Abstract

‘Grasslands Gala’ is the first cultivar of Bromus stamineus to be developed. It originates from germplasm collected in Chile. Bromus stamineus is a species closely related to prairie grass (Bromus willdenowii) with similar winter growth and summer drought tolerance. It differs by having a greater number of smaller tillers and an excellent tolerance to close and continuous grazing. Like prairie grass, Gala grazing brome exhibits poor tolerance to wetter soils and its use may be restricted to lighter-textured soils in dry regions. The seed of Gala has a longer awn than prairie grass which requires processing to enable seed to be sown with standard equipment. Establishment is rapid and successful when sown into warm soils from late spring until late summer at depths no greater than 25-30 mm. Gala grazing brome is resistent to head smut disease. A role is apparent for Gala grazing brome in pasture mixtures on drought-prone, lighter-textured soils in the dry east coast regions of New Zealand, particularly for pastures subject to close and frequent grazing. Further research is required on this new species.

Keywords:

• Bromus stamineus
• New Zealand
• prairie grass
• grazing brome
• pasture grass
• ‘Grasslands Gala’ grazing brome