Developing, growing and supplying quality grass seed is a family tradition for Cridge Seeds Ltd of Doyleston, Canterbury.

Stuart Cridge formed the company in 1982 and has more than 40 years' experience in the seed industry. As well as the company's own decades of research and development, Stuart and wife Julie travel overseas to inspect grass and forage seed trials to keep up with the latest international trends.

Stuart Cridge, with new season ryegrass – hot off the header and ready to be cleaned at Cridge Seeds' Canterbury facility.

'We have experienced and long-established local farmers who grow our own brands of grass seed for us, which are cleaned at our company site to a high standard, with purity and germination tests available on request,” says Julie.

Cridge Seeds deals directly with its customers and Stuart is available to discuss their specific needs.

'We have a good understanding of what grows well in different regions of the country so are able to help farmers with their choices,” says Julie.

In fact their website provides general recommendation for species, which will do well in different regions. Delivery is five days from ordering – but as now until April is very busy, Julie advises clients not to leave ordering until the last minute.

The company has a range of annual, perennial and fodder species. Among it is Canterbury - Riley and Enticer long rotation/perennials. Annuals include Cutter Tetraploid Italian and Striker Diploid Italian.

All of the seed can be used alone, or in sow downs mixed with clovers or brassicas.
Julie, who visited Bay of Plenty clients in February, says as a result of last summer's drought many farmers are questioning the pasture species they've used and are returning to tried and true varieties with the ability to endure tough conditions.