græssort

Græssort is a term used in Danish and other Scandinavian contexts to denote a cultivar or variety of grass (Poaceae) selected for particular characteristics. A græssort is a genetically distinct line within a grass species, bred to perform well under specific conditions or uses, such as turf, forage, or pasture.

Within a grass species, many græssorter may exist, each with a unique cultivar name. Common target traits include growth habit (upright or creeping), leaf texture and color, shoot density, drought tolerance, cold tolerance, disease resistance, and palatability for grazing. Græssorter can belong to major forage and turf groups, such as perennial ryegrass, red fescue, and meadow fescue, among others.

Propagation and use: Most græssorter are propagated by seed, though some are vegetatively propagated. In turf and lawns, there is a preference for fine texture, uniformity, and rapid establishment. In pastures and forage systems, persistence, high yield, and regrowth after grazing are prioritized.

Certification and labeling: Seed sold as græssort is typically tested for germination, purity, and vigor, and labeled with the cultivar name, species, and intended use. Many countries maintain seed certification schemes to ensure quality, traceability, and accurate labeling.

Impact: The use of græssorter enables farmers, landscapers, and turf managers to select grasses tailored to climate, soil, and management practices, improving productivity, resilience, and sustainability in lawns, pastures, and forage systems.