Main groups of temperate grasslands

Abstract

The three southern states of Brazil have large areas that can be used with temperate forage species without major restrictions. These areas are those that have Cfb climate (mild summer without drought). Much of them are already used with temperate forages, mainly annual species (ryegrasses and oats) or even some perennials. In these ecosystems, one can deploy high quality and productive pastures with species and cultivars commonly sold on market today. In recent years dozens of cultivars were registered at the Ministry of Agriculture, however much of these remains unknown to the vast majority of producers. Epagri have been evaluating many forage species, including annuals, perennials and biannuals. It has been proven that these genotypes require technology to express their genetic potential and should receive the same treatment as crops that use high technology, such as grains, for example. Quality and profitable pastures are only possible to achieve if management practices and recommended deployment are effectively applied.