Seed Production

Limagrain UK is a leading producer of grass seeds (perennial, Italian and hybrid ryegrasses plus cocksfoot) and forage brassica (forage rape, kale, swede and turnip) seed crops within this country for both domestic requirements and export markets.

We regard seed production as a two-way partnership between grower and merchant, each looking after the interests of the other with the target intention of achieving a mutually beneficial out-turn from the contracted area.

We welcome enquiries from professional farmers willing to go the extra mile required to produce seed crops to the highest possible quality standards. In return we offer highly competitive contract terms and market leading varieties capable of producing high seed yields. In addition we offer full support and agronomic advice under fixed, not option, contracts under which we agree to accept all produce subject to it meeting seed certification and contract standards. In turn, our growers agree to undertake all work required to meet those standards in a professional and timely manner.

Under UK/EU legislation the sale of uncertified seeds of grass and brassica seeds is prohibited by law. Therefore, all such seed production crops do require entry into the UK Seed Certification Schemes, supervised in England and Wales by NIAB, Cambridge on behalf of the UK Seed Certification Agency, DEFRA.

To this end all crops are required to meet specific standards of previous cropping, isolation against foreign pollen (of a species likely to cross-pollinate with the seed crop) and injurious weeds. The specific requirements of the various crops can be found in the appropriate PDF files at the top of this page.

In order to play a full part in seed production within the UK, to keep abreast of new ideas, technical and legislative matters and to maintain close contact with seed growers we are members of several seed growing orientated organisations. These include The British Association of Seed Producers, Herbage Seed Services (an organisation providing specific agronomic and field walking services for grass seed growers); the NFU Herbage Seed Technical Levy Fund; and the NIAB Recommended Grass and Clover Lists.

Grass and forage brassica seed production provides an ideal break crop in cereal rotations. If you have land available meeting the specific crop requirements, a professional attitude to quality seed production and facilities for conditioning and storing the seed post-harvest then we look forward to welcoming you as a Limagrain UK production partner.

Please contact Peter Garland - our Forage Crops Seed Production Manager – via e-mail using
the following address: peter.garland@limagrain.co.uk