Harvest has been challenging in many parts of Western Canada, with wet and humid conditions slowing progress. Fortunately, our grass species are the earliest crops on the farm, and in most cases growers were able to get them harvested before the weather turned.
Crop Conditions
Growers are reporting strong crops across Western Canada, with most of the grass seed crop now in the bin. In many cases, growers had to take seed off tough to beat the rains and are drying down the crop in the bin with aeration. A few fields that didn’t get off before the rains have been in swath for weeks and will be a struggle to harvest. Weeds are the main downgrading factor, reinforcing that a focus on weed control throughout the production process is critical to success.
The moist fall conditions have been beneficial for new seedings with most in excellent condition, though some fields are uneven due to drowned-out cover crops from early in the season.
In other production regions, Minnesota perennial ryegrass yields were average, with significantly fewer acres in production. Oregon produced an average perennial ryegrass crop, while tall fescue yields were slightly below average.
Market Overview
Overall turfgrass seed inventories are in the best shape they have been in years, supporting increased production and higher plantings going forward. Lower-quality tall fescue remains one of the few segments with high carryover inventory.
Improved inventory levels have supported turfgrass seed prices, which are up approximately 5–7% from this time last year. However, rising diesel prices are increasing the cost of getting seed to market.
Forage seed markets remain steady, with strong seed values across many species. Inventories remain low for several key forage grasses and legumes, forcing some customers to consider alternative species and varieties to meet their needs.
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial ryegrass crops in Western Canada were strong this fall, and should deliver profitable returns for growers. Yields are down slightly from last year, as dry late-season conditions reduced bushel weights. Fortunately, most of the crop was harvested early and in good condition.
Inventories are more balanced than they have been over the past few years, supporting stronger prices and increased plantings going forward.
Tall Fescue
Western Canadian tall fescue crops were good, with most fields harvested early before wet conditions set in this fall. Tall fescue inventories continue to decline, helping support higher prices compared with this time last year.
Strong crops combined with improved seed values should deliver solid returns for Canadian tall fescue growers. Supplies of top-performing tall fescue varieties remain limited, supporting increased plantings in the coming season.
Alfalfa Update
Certified alfalfa demand remains strong, with inventories low across North America. Production acres have increased across the region to help replenish supplies and meet demand, although wet harvest conditions in Western Canada could create challenges for this year’s crop.
The European alfalfa crop has returned to more typical production levels following two years of poor crops, reducing demand from the EU.
Red Fescue
Red fescue yields in the Peace River region improved from last year but remained below average in most areas. Production acres are down sharply, resulting in a relatively small overall crop, while carryover inventories remain limited.
Red fescue values have increased, creating a more supportive environment for new plantings in the coming season.
Timothy Update
Timely rains have helped new timothy plantings get off to a strong start this season. Common timothy supplies appear to be ample, putting some pressure on prices.
Demand for certified timothy, however, continues to be strong. Prices remain firm, with continued demand for additional production and new plantings.
To learn more about integrating forage and turf seed production into your operation, connect with a BrettYoung Seed Production Specialist.
