HOLDFAST was bred by CSIRO and released in 1991. It was derived from selected plants of Australian which displayed excellent seed retention. It was then back-crossed with Sirosa and Sirolan material followed by out-crossings with selected lines from the Mediterranean. It has similar agronomic characteristics to Sirolan and Sirosa but has superior seed retention when fully mature.
HOLDFAST has a semi-erect growth habit; it is classed as a winter active variety with low to moderate summer dormancy.
It offers acidic soil tolerance, medium seedling vigour and excellent winter production with high total production. Ideally, HOLDFAST should be rotationally grazed and offers good persistence under drought
HOLDFAST can be sown in the main and drier phalaris growing districts. HOLDFAST is a suitable replacement for Sirosa.
Growing Conditions
-
Soil Type
Grows best on deep, fertile, heavier textured soils, but adapted to a wide range of soil types from moderately shallow, sedimentary-derived soils to deep clay soils. Tolerates waterlogging and moderate salinity.
-
Sowing Rate
Mixes 1 - 3kg/ha
Pure 2 - 4kg/ha -
Rainfall
500mm+
-
pH
4.5 - 8.5 (CaCl2)
Advantages
- Bred as replacement for Sirosa
- Semi erect growth
- Low to moderate summer dormancy
- Acidic soil tolerance
- Medium seedling vigour for good establishment
- Excellent winter production
- Good persistence